Meaning & Definition of word "Cowardly"
to
Cowardly
/ˈkaʊərdli/
adjective:
- 1. lacking courage; excessively afraid of danger or pain
- Example: His cowardly behavior when faced with the challenge disappointed his friends.
- 2. showing a lack of courage; timid
- Example: She made a cowardly decision to avoid confronting her fears.
- 3. characterized by a lack of bravery or moral strength
- Example: His cowardly actions during the crisis revealed his true character.
- 4. exhibiting a willingness to retreat rather than face danger
- Example: The cowardly guards fled at the first sign of trouble.
Etymology
Middle English 'cowardice' + '-ly'
Common Phrases and Expressions
cowardly lion:
A character that appears brave but is actually fearful.
play the coward:
To act in a cowardly manner or avoid confrontation.
Related Words
coward:
A person who lacks the courage to face danger or difficulty.
cowardice:
Lack of bravery; a cowardly action.
Slang Meanings of cowardly
Meaning: chicken
Example Sentence: Don't be such a chicken; stand up for yourself!
Meaning: scaredy-cat
Example Sentence: He won't go on the roller coaster; he's such a scaredy-cat.