Pusillanimity: meaning, definitions and examples

😨
Add to dictionary

pusillanimity

 

[ ˌpjuːsɪˈlænɪmɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

lack of courage

Pusillanimity is the quality of being timid or cowardly, lacking courage in the face of danger or difficulty. It is the opposite of bravery and can be seen as a weakness.

Synonyms

cowardice, fearfulness, timidity

Examples of usage

  • He was criticized for his pusillanimity in not standing up for what he believed in.
  • Her pusillanimity prevented her from taking risks and pursuing her dreams.

Translations

Translations of the word "pusillanimity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pusilanimidade

🇮🇳 कायरता

🇩🇪 Kleinmütigkeit

🇮🇩 kepengecutan

🇺🇦 боягузтво

🇵🇱 tchórzostwo

🇯🇵 臆病

🇫🇷 pusillanimité

🇪🇸 pusilanimidad

🇹🇷 korkaklık

🇰🇷 소심함

🇸🇦 جبن

🇨🇿 zbabělost

🇸🇰 zbabelosť

🇨🇳 胆怯

🇸🇮 plahost

🇮🇸 hugleysi

🇰🇿 қорқақтық

🇬🇪 ლაჩრობა

🇦🇿 qorxaqlıq

🇲🇽 pusilanimidad

Etymology

The word 'pusillanimity' originated from the Latin word 'pusillanimis', which means 'very small spirit'. It was first used in the 15th century to describe a lack of courage or determination. The concept of pusillanimity has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, highlighting the importance of bravery and courage in facing challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,835 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.