Definition Of The Word Ambivalence

Main Entry:

am·biv·a·lence

Pronunciation:

\am-ˈbi-və-lən(t)s\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

International Scientific Vocabulary

Date:

1918

1: simultaneous and contradictory attitudes or feelings (as attraction and repulsion) toward an object, person, or action2 a: continual fluctuation (as between one thing and its opposite) b: uncertainty as to which approach to follow

— am·biv·a·lent \-lənt\ adjective

— am·biv·a·lent·ly adverb

2.	Psychology. the coexistence within an individual of positive and negative feelings toward the same person, object, or action, simultaneously drawing him or her in opposite directions.

Also, am·biv·a·len·cy.