Fainthearted

/ˈfeɪntˌhɑːrtɪd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Lacking courage or confidence; timid.
He was too fainthearted to confront the challenges that lay ahead.
Easily frightened or intimidated; cowardly.
The fainthearted spectators left the horror movie halfway through.
Weak or lacking in conviction.
Her fainthearted approach to the debate left little impact on the audience.

Etymology

Derived from the combination of 'faint' meaning lacking strength and 'hearted' relating to one's attitude or disposition.

Common Phrases and Expressions

faint of heart
describes someone who lacks courage or determination.

Related Words

timidity
the quality of being timid.
coward
a person who lacks the courage to face danger.
spineless
lacking resolution; weak.

Slang Meanings

wuss
Don't be such a wuss, it's just a rollercoaster!
chicken
He won't jump off the diving board; he's such a chicken.