cunctation

noun

cunc·​ta·​tion ˌkəŋ(k)-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce cunctation (audio)
: delay
cunctative
ˈkəŋ(k)-ˌtā-tiv How to pronounce cunctation (audio)
-tə-tiv
adjective

Word History

Etymology

Latin cunctation-, cunctatio, from cunctari to hesitate; akin to Sanskrit śaṅkate he wavers, Old English hangian to hang

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cunctation was in 1585

Rhymes for cunctation

See All Rhymes for cunctation

Browse Nearby Words

Cunaxa
cunctation
cund
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cunctation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cunctation. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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