Demur
(verb)
- To raise objection or show reluctance, especially on moral or conscientious grounds.
- To delay, to hesitate or to be unwilling to do something.
- To make a formal objection or opposition to something.
Origin:
From middle english demuren, from latin dēmorārī ("to linger, delay"), from dē- ("away") + morārī ("to dela.y")
Examples:
- The lawyer demurred at the idea of representing such a high-profile criminal.
- The investor demurred on the proposed acquisition, citing the high risk involved.
- The employee demurred when asked to work overtime.
- The judge demurred when asked to rule on the case before all the evidence had been presented.
- The scientist demurred when asked to sign the document, as it went against her professional ethics.