Reluctant means hesitating before doing something because you do not want to do it or because you are not sure that it is the right thing to do. See examples, synonyms, pronunciation and word origin of reluctant . If the adjective reluctant applies to you, it means that you are undergoing some inner struggle and are unwilling or unable to decide . The word reluctant comes from the Latin reluctantem, which means "to struggle against." Reluctant - Meaning , Definition & English Examples Reluctant means unwilling or hesitant to do something, often due to doubt or discomfort. It describes someone who acts with resistance or lack of enthusiasm. Example: She was reluctant to try the new food. Reluctant means unwilling or disinclined to do something. Find out the origin, usage, and related words of reluctant , such as loath, averse, and reticent, with examples and translations.