Coward: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used to describe someone who lacks courage and is afraid to face danger, difficulty, or pain. It is a straightforward term that is often used in serious contexts.

• He was branded a coward after he ran away from the fight.
• Being a coward, he never stood up for what he believed in.

This term is more informal and can be used in a teasing or playful manner. It's often used among friends or in situations where the tone is lighter. It can also be used to encourage someone to overcome their fear.

• Don't be such a chicken, try the rollercoaster!
• She called him a chicken when he refused to go into the haunted house.

This is a casual term used to describe someone who is not only afraid but also avoids any kind of challenge or confrontation. It carries a negative connotation and is often used to mock someone's lack of strength or bravery.

• Don't be a wimp, go talk to her!
• Everyone called him a wimp for skipping the gym.

This is an old-fashioned and somewhat humorous term for a coward. It is less commonly used nowadays and might come off as outdated, but it can add a touch of humor or irony to a statement.

• He's just a yellow-belly who wouldn't dare to speak up.
• Only a yellow-belly would run from such a small problem.

This term implies physical weakness as well as lack of courage. It is often used to highlight someone's physical inability to face challenges, and can be derogatory.

• Stop acting like a weakling and lift that weight.
• He felt like a weakling compared to the other competitors.

A person who lacks the courage to do something or is excessively afraid of danger or pain.

• He is a coward for not standing up to the bully.
• They called him a coward because he ran away from the fight.

A lighthearted and non-offensive term, often used with children or in a playful manner.

• Stop being a scaredy-cat and jump into the pool!
• The kids laughed and called the cat a scaredy-cat when it ran from the vacuum cleaner.

A common and informal way to call someone a coward, often used playfully. May be seen as slightly disrespectful in some contexts.

• Don't be such a chicken, it's just a rollercoaster.
• She didn't want to try the spicy food and they teased her, calling her a chicken.

An informal term, similar to 'chicken,' used to describe someone who lacks courage or strength. Can be considered mildly negative.

• He's such a wuss for not wanting to go camping in the rain.
• They called her a wuss when she refused to go on the scary ride.

A vulgar and highly offensive slang term used to insult someone as weak or cowardly. Strong negative connotation and should generally be avoided.

• He got called a pussy for not wanting to join in on the dangerous stunt.
• Using such language can be deeply hurtful and is inappropriate in most situations.

Used to describe someone who is afraid to face danger, pain, or difficulty. This word often has a negative connotation.

• He was called a coward for refusing to go into the haunted house.
• The soldier was branded a coward after he deserted his post.

Refers to someone who is shy or lacking in confidence rather than outright fearful. It is often used in a more neutral or even slightly sympathetic context.

• The dog was a timid person, always hiding behind his owner.
• Despite being a timid person, she managed to give a great presentation.

Refers to someone who lacks courage or is easily scared. This phrase is a bit more formal and less abrasive than 'coward'.

• Only the brave will succeed; the faint-hearted individual need not apply.
• She was too faint-hearted to watch the horror movie alone.

Describes someone lacking in courage or strength of character. This term carries a very negative connotation, suggesting weakness and lack of integrity.

• He's such a spineless individual, always agreeing with whatever his boss says.