Faintheart: meaning, definitions and examples
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faintheart
[ ˈfeɪntˌhɑːrt ]
lack of courage
A faintheart is a person who lacks courage or is timid in the face of difficulty. This term is often used to describe someone who is easily frightened or deterred from taking risks.
Synonyms
chicken, coward, craven, timid person
Examples of usage
- He was considered a faintheart for backing out of the challenge.
- In times of crisis, a faintheart may choose to flee rather than confront the situation.
- True leaders cannot be fainthearts; they must face adversity head-on.
Etymology
The word 'faintheart' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the combination of 'faint', meaning weak or lacking in strength, and 'heart', referencing courage or bravery. The term reflects the idea that a person's ability to confront challenges is tied to their inner strength or bravery. Over time, 'faintheart' has been used to characterize individuals who are risk-averse or quick to retreat in situations requiring courage. Its usage can often be found in literature and everyday speech, often used in a dismissive manner to imply that someone is not brave enough to face a daunting task or danger.