Vacillator

A vacillator is an individual who wavers or fluctuates between different opinions, courses of action, or decisions; someone who is indecisive and prone to changing their mind. This behavior stems from uncertainty, a lack of conviction, or an unwillingness to commit to a single stance. Vacillators may appear inconsistent, as their viewpoints and choices shift depending on circumstances or external influences. Their proneness to change can make them appear unreliable or untrustworthy. Ultimately, a vacillator struggles to maintain a steadfast position, creating doubt in their consistency.

Vacillator meaning with examples

• The committee was frustrated by the CEO, a notorious vacillator, as his decisions regarding the company's future constantly shifted based on the latest market trends and advisor's whims. The staff often felt as though they were chasing shadows, never knowing which direction to take their efforts. The team struggled with his constantly changing and fluctuating requirements.
• She was known to her friends as a political vacillator. Her support would change at the drop of a hat, aligning her with whichever candidate was currently gaining the most popularity. It made it difficult for people to discuss politics with her as her thoughts changed as soon as the wind blew in a different direction.
• The judge described the witness as a vacillator during cross-examination. Her testimony about the events of the night was unclear and inconsistent, constantly shifting based on the lawyer's questions. It cast doubt on the accuracy and credibility of the witness, leaving the jurors unsure of her.
• Dealing with the vacillator in negotiations proved challenging. Each time they reached a tentative agreement, he would change his mind. This constant backing and forthing delayed the process and eroded the trust and goodwill, making a timely resolution almost impossible due to his indecisiveness.