reluctance
noun
re·luc·tance
ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s 
1
: the quality or state of being reluctant
2
: the opposition offered in a magnetic circuit to magnetic flux
specifically
: the ratio of the magnetic potential difference to the corresponding flux
Synonyms
Examples of reluctance in a Sentence
the mice showed an odd reluctance to eat the cheese we had put out for them
Recent Examples on the Web
This internalized message can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt and a reluctance to live up to their full potential.
—
Deborah Cruz, Parents, 2 July 2024
Nonetheless, the Democratic Party expressed reluctance to pursue an impeachment bill following the petition news, local media reported.
—Anna Gordon, TIME, 1 July 2024
Homeless people sometimes turn down shelter for a variety of personal reasons, from health and safety concerns to a reluctance to follow curfews or abide by rules governing pets.
—Ethan Varian, The Mercury News, 28 June 2024
People close to the company say WBD and Liberty Global’s recent reluctance to back acquisitions has been a source of frustration for All3Media, which has looked on ruefully as desirable targets have bobbed into view and then been tugged away by rivals.
—Jake Kanter, Deadline, 27 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for reluctance 
Deborah Cruz, Parents, 2 July 2024
Nonetheless, the Democratic Party expressed reluctance to pursue an impeachment bill following the petition news, local media reported.
—Anna Gordon, TIME, 1 July 2024
Homeless people sometimes turn down shelter for a variety of personal reasons, from health and safety concerns to a reluctance to follow curfews or abide by rules governing pets.
—Ethan Varian, The Mercury News, 28 June 2024
People close to the company say WBD and Liberty Global’s recent reluctance to back acquisitions has been a source of frustration for All3Media, which has looked on ruefully as desirable targets have bobbed into view and then been tugged away by rivals.
—Jake Kanter, Deadline, 27 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for reluctance
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'reluctance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near reluctance
Cite this Entry
“Reluctance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reluctance. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
reluctance
noun
re·luc·tance
ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s
: the quality or state of being reluctant
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