pusillanimity

[ pyoo-suh-luh-nim-i-tee ]

noun

1. the state or condition of being pusillanimous; timidity; cowardliness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pusillanimity¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Late Latin word pusillanimitās. See pusillanimous, -ity

Example Sentences

Once again, Republican pusillanimity in the face of gun fanaticism threatens to gut sane gun legislation in Congress.

From The Daily Beast

He exhorted his hearers to imitate the example of Paris, and accused the royal officers of indolence and pusillanimity.

From Project Gutenberg

England then might, with more reason, reproach her own rulers for pusillanimity than the Corsicans for ingratitude.

From Project Gutenberg

Comments were very freely made on the energy displayed by commanders in some instances, in contrast with pusillanimity in others.

From Project Gutenberg

The Elector's struggle with himself was long and violent, but pusillanimity and self-interest for awhile prevailed.

From Project Gutenberg

But the pusillanimity which I have observed among the so-called Liberals has given me cause for reflection.

From Project Gutenberg