DOUBTFUL, adjective 1. Dubious; not settled in opinion; undetermined; wavering; hesitating; applied to persons; as, we are doubtful of a fact, or of the propriety of a measure. 2. Dubious; ambiguous; not clear in its meaning; as a doubtful expression. 3. Admitting of doubt; not obvious, clear or certain; questionable; not decided; as a doubtful case; a doubtful proposition; it is doubtful what will be the event of the war. 4. Of uncertain issue. We have sustained one day in doubtful fight. 5. Not secure; suspicious; as, we cast a doubtful eye. 6. Not confident; not without fear; indicating doubt. With doubtful feet, and wavering resolution. 7. Not certain or defined; as a doubtful hue.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI