Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DOUBT'FUL, a.

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. – Milton.
5. Not secure; suspicious; as, we cast a doubtful eye. – Hooker.
6. Not confident; not without fear; indicating doubt. With doubtful feet, and wavering resolution. – Milton.
7. Not certain or defined; as, a doubtful hue. – Milton.