diffidence

American  

[dif-i-duhns] / ˈdɪf ɪ dəns /

noun

1. the quality or state of being diffident.

---

Other Word Forms

• nondiffidence noun

Etymology

Origin of diffidence

First recorded in 1400–50; Middle English, from Latin diffīdentia “mistrust, want of confidence”; see diffident, -ence

Explanation

The noun diffidence refers to a lack of self-confidence. Your diffidence might be the reason why you never say "hi" to the cute guy or gal in the elevator or why you never ask for a raise. The noun diffidence comes from the Latin word diffidere, meaning "to mistrust" or "to lack confidence." Diffidence is often mistaken for snootiness because people don't understand that the diffident person is shy and lacking in confidence. "They asked him to be the team leader, but he expressed diffidence, saying that he didn't think he had enough time to do the job justice, nor did he think he had enough experience."

Example Sentences

One of the most frustrating aspects of the Cuomo campaign is the candidate’s diffidence about his time as governor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

And Singh's unassuming personality, which once made his every move seem like a revelation, was labelled as showing complacency, diffidence and even arrogance by some.

From BBC • Dec. 27, 2024

“It is probably this diffidence that has made it difficult to make progress on solutions.”

From Seattle Times • Jul. 23, 2023

If there is a leitmotif linking Ms. Kitto’s oral histories, it takes the form of tales illustrating either Mr. Penn’s generosity of spirit or a stubborn diffidence that strikes with the force of a blow.

From New York Times • Oct. 21, 2021

Invariably, it took Ben and Mary Anne months before they could overcome their native diffidence, which actually was an obstinate refusal to make themselves vulnerable.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy