reluctance

noun

re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The only remotely realistic thing about the episode is the son’s reluctance to consent. Samuel Ashworth, The Atlantic, 20 Mar. 2025 But even there the drama was powered by an eerie intensity of observation and again displayed a reluctance to look away too soon. Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2025 However, the absence of Johns from the event is consistent with his continued reluctance to revisit Silverchair’s past. Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 19 Mar. 2025 There was a reluctance to pay such a sum for someone whose talent was clear, but who had yet to deliver consistently in an elite league. Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reluctance

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reluctance was circa 1628

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Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

reluctance

noun
re·​luc·​tance ri-ˈlək-tən(t)s How to pronounce reluctance (audio)
: the quality or state of being reluctant

More from Merriam-Webster on reluctance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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