noun
timidity
tih-MID-uh-tee/tɪˈmɪdəti/
Lack of courage or confidence.
The young adult stays at the edge of the welcoming group out of timidity.
Etymology
The base describes someone fearful or easily frightened. The noun names that fearfulness as a quality of character, hence a lack of courage or confidence.
In context
Marlborough was confronted with seemingly endless indecision, timidity, and an apparent lack of commitment by his Dutch allies
More examples
- He gradually overcomes his timidity around strangers.
- Despite her timidity, she volunteers to speak first.
- The company's timidity about investing lets its competitors pull ahead.
Forms
timidity
timid adjective — Easily frightened or lacking confidence.
timidly adverb — In a fearful or hesitant way.
Similar words
- shyness
- Focuses on discomfort or reserve around other people.
- cowardice
- More strongly condemns a failure to face danger or difficulty.
- diffidence
- Emphasizes self-doubt and reluctance to assert oneself.