cower

[ kou-er ]

verb (used without object)

1. to crouch, as in fear or shame.

   Synonyms: quail, flinch, recoil, cringe

cower

/ ˈkaʊə /

verb

1. intr to crouch or cringe, as in fear

Other Words From

• cower·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cower¹

1250–1300; Middle English couren; cognate with Norwegian, Swedish kūra, Middle Low German kūren, German kauern

Word History and Origins

Origin of cower¹

C13: from Middle Low German kūren to lie in wait; related to Swedish kura to lie in wait, Danish kure to squat

Example Sentences

The sounds of Herbert’s bat in the cage made Manley cower behind the pitching screen.

From Los Angeles Times

Until our lawmakers pass bold, meaningful action, more children will cower behind desks, texting their family “I love you” as shots ring out just beyond the classroom door.

From Salon

Post columnist Dana Milbank excoriated the owner for the decision, which he said “gave the appearance of cowering before a wannabe dictator to protect Bezos’s business interests.”

From Los Angeles Times

The slain leader’s backers, she wrote, “will see in it the embodiment of Palestinian resistance, devastated and still defiantly fighting, not cowering in a tunnel.”

From Los Angeles Times

Not long afterward, they’re cowering at her feet as she robs them.

From Salon

Related Words

• cringe
• crouch
• flinch
• recoil
• skulk
• tremble
• wince