DOUBT (3)

Doubt, n. [[OE. dute, doute, F. doute, fr. douter to doubt. See Doubt, v. i.]] 1. 1. A fluctuation of mind arising from defect of knowledge or evidence; uncertainty of judgment or mind; unsettled state of opinion concerning the reality of an event, or the truth of an assertion, etc.; hesitation.
Doubt is the beginning and the end of our efforts to know. Sir W. Hamilton. Doubt, in order to be operative in requiring an acquittal, is not the want of perfect certainty (which can never exist in any question of fact) but a defect of proof preventing a reasonable assurance of quilt. Wharton. 2. 2. Uncertainty of condition.
Thy life shall hang in doubt before thee. Deut. xxviii. 66. 3. 3. Suspicion; fear; apprehension; dread.
I stand in doubt of you. Gal. iv. 20. Nor slack her threatful hand for danger's doubt. Spenser. 4. 4. Difficulty expressed or urged for solution; point unsettled; objection.
To every doubt your answer is the same. Blackmore. No doubt, undoubtedly; without doubt. — Out of doubt, beyond doubt. Spenser. Syn. — Uncertainty; hesitation; suspense; indecision; irresolution; distrust; suspicion; scruple; perplexity; ambiguity; skepticism.