Meaning & Definition of word "Coward"
to
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.