risk-averse

[risk-uh-vurs]

adverb

1. reluctant to take risks; tending to avoid risks as much as possible.

   risk-averse entrepreneurs.

2. of or noting a person who invests in stocks, bonds, etc., with lower risks and generally lower rates of return so as to minimize the possibility of financial loss.

   risk-averse investors who stick with government bonds.

Word History and Origins

Origin of risk-averse¹

First recorded in 1960–65; risk ( def. ) + averse ( def. )