Demur

Verb

Definition: To raise doubts or objections, especially out of moral or ethical considerations.

Definition: To hesitate or delay in accepting or agreeing to something.

Synonyms: Hesitate, Object, Protest, Dissent

Antonyms: Accept, Agree, Consent, Comply

Examples:

She demurred at the suggestion to work on the project without proper resources.
The employee demurred when asked to work overtime without additional pay.

Mnemonics:

Think of "de" (meaning away or against) and "mur" (which sounds like "more") as going against or resisting something.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "demur" comes from the Old French word "demorer" which means "to delay" or "to linger." It was influenced by the Latin word "mora" which means "delay" or "hindrance."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the 16th century and has retained its meaning of raising objections or hesitating in acceptance.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Without demur"

Explanation:

This means without any hesitation or objection. Example

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "demur" with "demure."

Explanation:

While "demur" means to hesitate or object, "demure" means shy, modest, or reserved. These are two distinct words with different meanings.