Doubtful — Defs

01 a. Not settled in opinion; undetermined; wavering; hesitating in belief; also used, metaphorically, of the body when its action is affected by…

1.
Not settled in opinion; undetermined; wavering; hesitating in belief; also used, metaphorically, of the body when its action is affected by such a state of mind; as, we are doubtful of a fact, or of the propriety of a measure.
“Methinks I should know you, and know this man; Yet I am doubtful.” — Shak.

“With doubtful feet and wavering resolution.” — Milton.
2.
Admitting of doubt; not obvious, clear, or certain; questionable; not decided; not easy to be defined, classed, or named; as, a doubtful case, hue, claim, title, species, and the like.
“Beauty is but a vain and doubtful good.” — Shak.

“Is it a great cruelty to expel from our abode the enemy of our peace, or even the doubtful friend [i. e., one as to whose sincerity there may be doubts]?” — Bancroft.
3.
Characterized by ambiguity; dubious; as, a doubtful expression; a doubtful phrase.
4.
Of uncertain issue or event.
“We . . . have sustained one day in doubtful fight.” — Milton.

“The strife between the two principles had been long, fierce, and doubtful.” — Macaulay.
5.
Fearful; apprehensive; suspicious.[Obs.]
“I am doubtful that you have been conjunct And bosomed with her.” — Shak.