diffidence

[ dif-i-duhns ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being diffident.

Other Words From

• non·diffi·dence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of diffidence¹

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

Example Sentences

The scene says a lot with a little, hitting comic beats but ending deflatedly thanks to the art dealer’s ruthless reaction to this diffidence.

From New York Times

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

From Seattle Times

One video shows the two cats at their first meeting exhibiting mutual curiosity and typical feline diffidence.

From Los Angeles Times

Eventually, Hilary’s boss, Mr. Ellis — played with characteristic diffidence by Colin Firth — arrives, stiffly giving her a box of candy “with deep affection.”

From Washington Post

One lesson of the book is that people reared in places saturated with complicated racial meanings ought to treat their convictions about race with diffidence and perhaps with suspicion.

From Washington Post