Cowardice

/ˈkaʊərdɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The lack of courage to face danger, difficulty, or pain; weakness of character.

His cowardice was evident when he refused to confront the bully.

An act or instance of cowardly behavior.

Choosing to abandon his friends in a crisis was a true act of cowardice.

The quality of being cowardly.

They viewed her indecision as a sign of cowardice rather than caution.

A tendency to avoid risks due to fear or anxiety.

His cowardice held him back from pursuing his dreams.

Middle English, from Anglo-French 'cowardice', from 'coward'

a coward's way out

an easy or safe option taken to avoid danger or difficulty

coward's heart

a heart filled with fear or anxiety

coward

a person who lacks courage

timid

showing a lack of courage or confidence

chicken

Don’t be such a chicken, face your fears!

scaredy-cat

She acts like a scaredy-cat whenever there's a storm.