variants also loth or lothe
Definition of loathnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word loath different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of loath are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

Where would averse be a reasonable alternative to loath?

In some situations, the words averse and loath are roughly equivalent. However, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

When could disinclined be used to replace loath?

The synonyms disinclined and loath are sometimes interchangeable, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

In what contexts can hesitant take the place of loath?

While in some cases nearly identical to loath, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use reluctant instead of loath?

While the synonyms reluctant and loath are close in meaning, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of loath Sandeep is nothing loath to make trouble for his annoyingly precocious little sister. Literary Hub, 16 June 2026 Think about how loath Kamala Harris was to criticize Joe Biden during the 2024 election, and how that may have hurt her with swing voters—and then imagine how that might work with a president who is both more vengeful and more influential with his base. David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 11 May 2026 But clients are often loath to take the steps necessary to establish intent not to return, Doyle said. Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 16 Apr. 2026 The attorneys, by contrast, were well educated and mostly white, and would almost certainly have been loath to climb into a car with Garrison and go looking for a truck to hit. Patrick Radden Keefe, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loath
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loath
Adjective
  • The dimension that does the most good is the one leaders are most reluctant to give, because choice costs authority while enjoyment costs only money.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • Last week, sources told THR that studios were reluctant to pick up the film for a variety of reasons, including political concerns.
    Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • His kids, though hesitant at first, became a large part of the business.
    Jenna Thompson June 24, Kansas City Star, 24 June 2026
  • The stock is catching the eye of short-sellers, but as CNBC’s Yun Li reports, many still seem hesitant about betting against Elon Musk.
    Alex Harring, CNBC, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loath.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loath. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.

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