thin-skinned

[ thin-skind ]

adjective

1. having a thin skin.
2. sensitive to criticism, reproach, or rebuff; easily offended; touchy:

   a thin-skinned poet.

   Synonyms: susceptible, soft, squeamish

thin-skinned

adjective

1. sensitive to criticism or hints; easily upset or affected

Word History and Origins

Origin of thin-skinned¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

As he scribbled in his journal, “How to remain thin-skinned, vulnerable, and still alive?”

From The Daily Beast

For these self-righteous and thin-skinned folks, there are apparently limits to the liberal virtue of tolerance.

From The Daily Beast

It prompted talk Quinn was thin-skinned and gave the ads more attention.

From The Daily Beast

“There are many, many thin-skinned folks,” Leibovich continued.

From The Daily Beast

Wilson was exceedingly thin-skinned and prone to feuds, possibly as a byproduct of his excessive self-medicating.

From The Daily Beast

We hope we have done justice to the bitterness and "immortal hate" of these thin-skinned sons of freedom.

From Project Gutenberg

He would have made his brother Duke such as he was himself,—had not his brother Duke been so lamentably thin-skinned.

From Project Gutenberg

Civilization is merely a veneer, a thin-skinned polish over the savage and crude nature.

From Project Gutenberg

A cynicism so ripe and shameless terrified him and yet the count was not excessively thin-skinned.

From Project Gutenberg

The fingers of the Thoracic are also inclined to be more thin-skinned than those of other types.

From Project Gutenberg