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- Cower - meaning & definition
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/ˈkaʊər/
Meaning & Definition
verb
to crouch down in fear
The dog cowered in the corner during the thunderstorm.
to shrink away or hide in fear
She cowered behind her mother when the loud noise startled her.
to show submission or fear
He cowered before his angry boss, unsure of what to say.
to bend low or crouch, especially in fear
The soldiers cowered under the relentless gunfire.
to cringe or recoil in fear or servility
The children cowered at the sight of the scary movie monster.
Etymology
Middle English *coweren*, from Old English *cūrian*.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cower in fear
To be visibly afraid and retreat or cringe.
cower before
To submit or show fear in the presence of someone.
Related Words
cringe
To shrink or recoil in fear or in response to anxiety.
flinch
To make a quick, nervous movement in response to something frightening.
Slang Meanings
To be scared or timid.
He totally cowed when the roller coaster started.