Hesitation happens when you feel uncertainty or doubt. It can be a pause in speech, a faltering moment before you act, or a silent second of indecision. If your friend's dog is growling and staring you down, but she tells you he won't bite, that feeling that something not feeling right that stops you from petting him is hesitation. The Latin root of hesitation is haesitationem, which means irresolution or uncertainty.

Answer:
The synonym of the word "hesitated" is "paused".

Explanation:
To understand why "paused" is the synonym of "hesitated", let's first define the word "hesitate". Hesitate means to temporarily hold back or delay in taking action, speaking, or making a decision due to uncertainty, doubt, or indecision. It is an action of briefly pausing or thinking before proceeding.

Similar Meanings:
1. Stopped: While hesitation involves a temporary pause or delay, stopping refers to completely ceasing an action or movement. It suggests a more permanent termination of an activity or process. Therefore, "stopped" does not accurately convey the meaning of "hesitated".
2. Paused: Both "hesitated" and "paused" involve a temporary halt or delay. They imply a momentary break in action or thought. Therefore, "paused" is a suitable synonym for "hesitated".
3. Slowed: "Slowed" implies a reduction in speed or pace. While hesitation might cause a decrease in speed, it does not necessarily involve a continuous slowing down. Thus, "slowed" does not capture the essence of "hesitated".
4. Postponed: "Postponed" means to delay or reschedule an event, appointment, or plan to a later time. It suggests a deliberate decision to postpone something. On the other hand, "hesitated" refers to a momentary pause or delay in making a decision or taking action. Therefore, "postponed" does not have the same meaning as "hesitated".

Conclusion:
Among the given options, the synonym that best corresponds to the meaning of "hesitated" is "paused" because both words indicate a temporary break or delay before proceeding with an action or decision.