timid

[ tim-id ]

adjective

, tim·id·er, tim·id·est.

1. lacking in self-assurance, courage, or bravery; easily alarmed; timorous; shy.

   Synonyms: fainthearted, fearful

2. characterized by or indicating fear:

   a timid approach to a problem.

timid

/ ˈtɪmɪd /

adjective

1. easily frightened or upset, esp by human contact; shy
2. indicating shyness or fear

Derived Forms

• ˈtimidly, adverb
• tiˈmidity, noun

Other Words From

• ti·mid·i·ty [ti-, mid, -i-tee], tim·id·ness noun
• tim·id·ly adverb
• o·ver·tim·id adjective
• o·ver·tim·id·ly adverb
• un·tim·id adjective
• un·tim·id·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of timid¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Latin timidus “fearful,” equivalent to tim(ēre) “to fear” + -idus adjective suffix; -id ⁴

Word History and Origins

Origin of timid¹

C16: from Latin timidus, from timēre to fear

Synonym Study

See cowardly.

Example Sentences

“We’re not going to be timid. We’re not just going to sit here on the defense and we’re going to build coalitions, and we’re going to build partnerships with other states and AGs, not just other governors,” Newsom said before the election.

From Los Angeles Times

Billy knew something wasn't right when the usually timid animal sat next to him to eat her prey.

From BBC

"My cat can get a bit timid, especially when the explosions are going on quite loudly," he said.

From BBC

“While firms continue to move fast and break things, timid regulation could cost lives… We have to find a way to move faster and to be bolder”.

From BBC

Barnes suggested that Jesus himself could provide an example for Christians who are timid about reaching out to others with their convictions.

From Salon

Related Words

• ambivalent
• bashful
• demure
• diffident
• fearful
• feeble
• frightened
• gentle
• humble
• modest
• nervous
• weak