timid
[tim-id]
- lacking in self-assurance, courage, or bravery; easily alarmed; timorous; shy.
- characterized by or indicating fear: a timid approach to a problem.
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Origin of timid
Synonyms
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1. See cowardly.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Related Words
easilydelicatelycasuallytenderlymoderatelygingerlysoftlysimplymildlyfreelyquietlyslightlysparselyfaintlysubtlynervouslytimidlywarilyhesitantlycautiouslyExamples from the Web for timidly
Contemporary Examples
The quartet is presented with a pitcher of syrup, which the waiter advises we apply “temperately, but not timidly.”
Historical Examples
With some embarrassment he delicately, timidly, hinted his apprehensions.
Tales And Novels, Volume 9 (of 10)Maria Edgeworth
She timidly signed the card and returned it to the corner of the table.
City of Endless NightMilo Hastings
"He is the member for North Northamptonshire," I timidly replied.
Sigmund shrunk a little away from his uncle, not timidly, but with some distaste.
The First ViolinJessie Fothergill
Now, timidly peeping from behind her skirts, he ventured to open his eyes on it.
Cleo The MagnificentLouis Zangwill
timid
- easily frightened or upset, esp by human contact; shy
- indicating shyness or fear
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Word Origin
C16: from Latin timidus, from timēre to fear
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for timidly
timid
adj.
1540s, from Middle French timide "easily frightened, shy," from Latin timidus "fearful," from timere "to fear." Related: Timidly; timidness.
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper