Pronunciation: [ɹɪlˈʌktənt] (IPA) 
The word reluctant is spelled with the letters r-e-l-u-c-t-a-n-t. It is pronounced /rɪˈlʌktənt/. The first syllable is stressed, and it contains the short "i" sound, as in "sit". The "u" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "uh" sound in "up". The final syllable contains the typical "-ant" spelling with the short "a" sound, as in "ant". The word reluctant means to be hesitant or unwilling to do something.
The term "reluctant" describes an attitude or feeling of hesitation, unwillingness, or resistance towards a particular action, decision, or situation. It refers to a state of being reluctant, where one feels a sense of reluctance or an inner reluctance to proceed with a given task or response.
When someone is reluctant, they exhibit a lack of enthusiasm or eagerness in carrying out an action. This reluctance may stem from various factors such as fear, insecurity, doubt, or dissatisfaction. It implies a certain level of opposition towards the prescribed course of action, often leading to a delay or resistance in performing the expected task.
A reluctant individual may exhibit visible signs of hesitation, such as procrastination, verbal expressions of doubt or uncertainty, or a general avoidance of the situation at hand. It is important to note that reluctance does not necessarily imply complete refusal or non-compliance; rather, it signifies a state of inner resistance that may or may not be overcome eventually.
The term "reluctant" is often related to personal feelings and attitudes, but it can also be used to describe the response of groups or organizations. For example, a company may be reluctant to adopt new technology due to concerns about cost or potential risks.
In summary, "reluctant" describes an individual or group's unwillingness, hesitancy, or resistance in performing a specific action, decision, or response. It conveys a sense of internal opposition or hesitation towards a given task or situation.
Much opposed in heart; unwilling; averse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "reluctant" can be traced back to Latin and ultimately derives from the prefix "re-" meaning "back" or "again", and the verb "luctārī" meaning "to struggle" or "to wrestle". In Latin, "reluctāns" was formed, which referred to someone resisting or struggling against something. This Latin term then evolved into "reluctant" in English, maintaining its original meaning of showing hesitation, unwillingness, or aversion.
