Loath | Definition of loath by Merriam-Webster

Full Definition of LOATH

: unwilling to do something contrary to one's ways of thinking : reluctant

— loath·ness noun

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Variants of LOATH

loath also loth \ˈlōth, ˈlōth\ or loathe \ˈlōth, ˈlōth\

Origin of LOATH

Middle English loth loathsome, from Old English lāth; akin to Old High German leid loathsome, Old Irish lius loathing

First Known Use: 12th century

Related to LOATH

Synonyms: cagey (also cagy), disinclined, dubious, indisposed, hesitant (also loth or loathe), reluctant, reticent

Antonyms: disposed, inclined

Synonym Discussion of LOATH

disinclined, hesitant, reluctant, loath, averse mean lacking the will or desire to do something indicated. disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination <disinclined to move again> <disinclined for reading>. hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty <hesitant about asking for a date>. reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness <a reluctant witness>. loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking <seems loath to trust anyone>. averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance <averse to hard work> <not averse to an occasional drink>.