Langimage
English

dither

|dith/er|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈdɪðər/

🇬🇧

/ˈdɪðə/

indecisive agitation

Etymology
Etymology Information

'dither' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'didderen,' where 'didderen' meant 'to tremble.'

Historical Evolution

'didderen' transformed into the modern English word 'dither' through gradual phonetic changes.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to tremble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'indecisiveness or agitation.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a state of indecisive agitation or confusion.

She was in a dither about whether to accept the job offer.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to be indecisive or to act nervously.

He dithered for a moment before making his decision.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35