Which word best describes a person who is unwilling to give or grant something?

The word that best describes a person who is unwilling to give or grant something is "grudging." This term implies a sense of reluctance or unwillingness to provide something, often accompanied by a sense of resentment. For example, if someone is grudging in their praise or support, it suggests they are not genuinely happy about giving it and tend to do so only with great reluctance.

In contrast, the other options do not convey the same sense of unwillingness. "Laudatory" refers to expressing praise or admiration, which is the opposite of being reluctant. "Intrepid" describes someone who is fearless and adventurous, bearing no relation to granting or giving. A "maverick" is a person who is independent and nonconformist, but this does not inherently imply any unwillingness to provide something. Thus, "grudging" is the most accurate descriptor for someone who is hesitant or reluctant to give something.