Meaning & Definition of word "Coward"
Coward
/ˈkaʊ.ərd/
noun:
- 1. A person who lacks the courage to do or endure dangerous or unpleasant things.
- Example: He was called a coward for refusing to confront the bully.
- 2. Someone who shows a lack of bravery in situations demanding courage.
- Example: She considered him a coward for backing out of the fight.
- 3. An individual who is excessively fearful or timid.
- Example: The coward didn't even attempt to join the rescue mission.
Etymology
●The word 'coward' originates from the Old French 'couard', meaning 'tail' or 'one who drags his tail behind him', ultimately from Latin 'cauda'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
coward's way out:
An action taken to avoid facing a difficult situation.
play the coward:
To act in a fearful or timid manner.
cowardice in the face of danger:
The act of showing fear instead of bravery during a threatening situation.
Related Words
bravery:
The quality of being brave and fearless.
fear:
An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous.
timidity:
The state of being shy or lacking in self-confidence.
Slang Meanings of coward
Meaning: Chicken
● Example Sentence: Don't be a chicken; just go talk to her!
Meaning: Yellow-belly
● Example Sentence: He really is a yellow-belly for backing down from the challenge.
Meaning: Scaredy-cat
● Example Sentence: You're such a scaredy-cat for not wanting to go on the roller coaster.