First Known Use: 1597
Dictionary
vacillate
verb vac·il·late \ˈva-sə-ˌlāt\
: to repeatedly change your opinions or desires
vac·il·lat·edvac·il·lat·ing
Full Definition of VACILLATE
intransitive verb
2
: to waver in mind, will, or feeling : hesitate in choice of opinions or courses
— vac·il·lat·ing·ly \-ˌlā-tiŋ-lē\ adverb
— vac·il·la·tor \-ˌlā-tər\ noun
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Origin of VACILLATE
Latin vacillatus, past participle of vacillare to sway, waver — more at wink
Related to VACILLATE
Synonym Discussion of VACILLATE
hesitate, waver, vacillate, falter mean to show irresolution or uncertainty. hesitate implies a pause before deciding or acting or choosing <hesitated before answering the question>. waver implies hesitation after seeming to decide and so connotes weakness or a retreat <wavered in his support of the rebels>. vacillate implies prolonged hesitation from inability to reach a firm decision <vacillated until events were out of control>. falter implies a wavering or stumbling and often connotes nervousness, lack of courage, or outright fear <never once faltered during her testimony>.
Rhymes with VACILLATE
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VACILLATINGLY Defined for Kids
vacillate
verb vac·il·late \ˈva-sə-ˌlāt\
vac·il·lat·edvac·il·lat·ing
Definition of VACILLATE for Kids
: to hesitate between courses or opinions : be unable to choose
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