VocabDictionary

vacillation

/ˌvæs.ɪˈleɪ.ʃən/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The act of wavering or irresolution; state of being undecided between different opinions, courses of action, or beliefs.

Example Sentences:
  • Her continuous vacillation on the budget proposal frustrated the entire executive board.
  • After months of political vacillation, the government finally announced a decisive policy change.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “vacillation”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin verb 'vacillare', meaning 'to sway back and forth' or 'to waver'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century via French, retaining its literal sense of unsteady physical movement before evolving primarily to describe indecision or wavering in opinion, purpose, or action.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'vaccine' hesitation: when you keep swaying back and forth about whether to get it, you are in a state of vacillation.

Frequently Asked Questions About “vacillation

1. What is the meaning of “vacillation” in English?

In English, vacillation (noun) is defined as: “The act of wavering or irresolution; state of being undecided between different opinions, courses of action, or beliefs.”.

2. How do you use “vacillation” in a sentence?

Her continuous vacillation on the budget proposal frustrated the entire executive board.

3. What are English synonyms of “vacillation”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “vacillation”?

Derived from the Latin verb 'vacillare', meaning 'to sway back and forth' or 'to waver'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century via French, retaining its literal sense of unsteady physical movement before evolving primarily to describe indecision or wavering in opinion, purpose, or action.