Langimage
English

vacillating

|vac-il-lat-ing|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈvæsɪˌleɪtɪŋ/

🇬🇧

/ˈvæsɪleɪtɪŋ/

(vacillate)

indecisive wavering

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
vacillatevacillatesvacillatedvacillatedvacillating
Etymology
Etymology Information

'vacillate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'vacillare,' where 'vacill-' meant 'to sway to and fro.'

Historical Evolution

'vacillare' transformed into the French word 'vaciller,' and eventually became the modern English word 'vacillate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to sway or fluctuate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to be indecisive.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

wavering between different opinions or actions; indecisive.

She was vacillating between attending the meeting or staying home.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45