Pusillanimis

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Characterized by a lack of courage or determination, exhibiting timidity and faint-heartedness in the face of challenges
2. Describing an individual as cowardly or easily intimidated, often hesitant to take bold actions or make decisions
3. Marked by a deficiency of bravery, showing a tendency to shrink from confrontation or assertiveness in various situations

Etymology: Latin "pusillanimis" is a compound of "pusillus", meaning "very small" or "tiny" (a diminutive of "pusus", "little boy"), and "animus", meaning "mind", "spirit" or "courage". Literally it describes a small-spirited person. Cicero and other Roman writers used it for someone whose resolve shrinks at the first hint of danger, and Latin preachers later took it over for a related sin of lacking confidence in God. English borrowed the word in the late 1500s, when writers were actively mining Latin for vocabulary, and it has stayed in the formal register ever since. Its English form, "pusillanimous", keeps the same two parts, so the Latin "animus" that once meant spirit now sits behind a word about fear.

Synonyms: pusillanimous, cowardly, timid, fearful, craven

Antonyms: brave, courageous, bold, valiant, fearless