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Diffident: meaning, definitions and examples

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diffident

 

[ ˈdɪfɪdənt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

personal characteristic

Diffident describes someone who is shy and lacking in self-confidence. Such individuals may hesitate to express their opinions or take action due to insecurity about themselves or their abilities.

Synonyms

reserved, self-effacing, shy, timid

Examples of usage

  • She was diffident at the meeting, rarely speaking up.
  • His diffident nature made it difficult for him to approach new people.
  • Despite her talent, she remained diffident about her skills.

Translations

Translations of the word "diffident" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tímido

🇮🇳 संकोची

🇩🇪 schüchtern

🇮🇩 pemalu

🇺🇦 сором'язливий

🇵🇱 nieśmiały

🇯🇵 内気な

🇫🇷 timide

🇪🇸 tímido

🇹🇷 çekingen

🇰🇷 소심한

🇸🇦 خجول

🇨🇿 stydlivý

🇸🇰 plachý

🇨🇳 羞怯的

🇸🇮 sramežljiv

🇮🇸 hlédr

🇰🇿 ұяң

🇬🇪 სირცხვილი

🇦🇿 çəkingən

🇲🇽 tímido

Etymology

The word 'diffident' comes from the Latin word 'diffidere', which means 'to distrust' or 'to lack confidence'. 'Diffidere' is composed of 'dis-', a prefix meaning 'apart' or 'away', and 'fidere', meaning 'to trust'. The transition to English occurred in the late 15th century, reflecting feelings of insecurity or lack of confidence. Over time, its meaning has refined to characterize a certain type of reserved personality, specifically in contexts where individuals struggle to assert themselves or share their perspectives. The modern use of 'diffident' retains this sense of shyness, often with a connotation of modesty or unassuming demeanor.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,112, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.