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Diffidence: meaning, definitions and examples

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diffidence

 

[ ˈdɪfɪdəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

self-doubt, shyness

Diffidence refers to a lack of self-confidence or a hesitance to assert oneself. It often manifests as shyness or reserved behavior in social situations. Individuals who experience diffidence may hold back from speaking up or participating fully due to feelings of insecurity.

Synonyms

bashfulness, self-doubt, shyness, timidity.

Examples of usage

  • Her diffidence made it difficult for her to participate in class discussions.
  • Despite his talents, his diffidence prevented him from applying for the leadership position.
  • The diffidence in his voice revealed his insecurities during the presentation.
  • She overcame her diffidence and volunteered to lead the group project.

Translations

Translations of the word "diffidence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 difidência

🇮🇳 संकोच

🇩🇪 Scheu

🇮🇩 ragu

🇺🇦 невпевненість

🇵🇱 nieśmiałość

🇯🇵 内気さ

🇫🇷 timidité

🇪🇸 timidez

🇹🇷 çekingenlik

🇰🇷 소심함

🇸🇦 تردد

🇨🇿 stydlivost

🇸🇰 plachosť

🇨🇳 羞怯

🇸🇮 sramežljivost

🇮🇸 hógmenni

🇰🇿 қорқақтық

🇬🇪 დაჯერებულობა

🇦🇿 çəkinmə

🇲🇽 timidez

Etymology

The word 'diffidence' originates from the Latin term 'diffidentia', which means 'lack of trust or confidence'. This term is derived from 'diffidēre', meaning 'to distrust' or 'to lack confidence'. The prefix 'dis-' implies a negation or removal, while 'fidere' relates to trust or faith. The incorporation of the term into the English language dates back to the early 17th century, reflecting a growing awareness of psychological states and personal insecurities. Over time, 'diffidence' has come to encompass not only the idea of self-distrust but also a broader sense of reserved or unassuming behavior in social contexts. The word has been used in various literary works to describe characters who are introspective or reluctant to engage with others due to their insecurities.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,641, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.