lily-livered

[ lil-ee-liv-erd ]

adjective

1. weak or lacking in courage; cowardly; pusillanimous.

lily-livered

adjective

1. cowardly; timid

Word History and Origins

Origin of lily-livered¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; lily + liver ¹ + -ed ³

Example Sentences

Of course, Paxton isn't just a standout when it comes to being lily-livered.

From Salon

But, he said, the plan faced resistance from “lily-livered, weak-kneed” officials in the White House Counsel’s Office.

From Washington Post

He won't be so hobbled by his lily-livered inability to give a direct order next time, because, frankly, he won't have to.

From Salon

If that happens, they can point to their lily-livered observations and say, “See, we knew it all along.”

From Los Angeles Times

The lily-livered nature of the Roe overturn suggests that the conservative justices know full well that abortion rights are broadly popular with everyone who isn't a bug-eyed, Bible-thumping lady hater.

From Salon