'hesitate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'haesitare,' where 'haesit-' meant 'to stick or hesitate.'

'haesitare' transformed into the French word 'hesiter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'hesitate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to stick or pause,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to be uncertain or indecisive.'