Pusillanimous: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'pusillanimis', meaning 'small-spirited' or 'timid'.
• It combines the Latin words 'pusillus', meaning 'very small', and 'animus', meaning 'spirit' or 'soul'.
• The term has been used in English since the 17th century, reflecting a long history of describing cowardice.

Psychology

• People labeled as pusillanimous may struggle with anxiety, leading them to avoid situations that make them uncomfortable.
• This behavior can be linked to a lack of self-confidence, often hindering personal growth.
• Understanding this term helps in discussions about fear and anxiety disorders in psychology.

Literature

• The term appears in various literary texts to criticize characters who are overly cautious or afraid.
• In Shakespeare's works, such individuals are often portrayed as lacking in honor or bravery.
• Modern authors continue to use the word to describe characters who shrink from challenges.

Pop Culture

• In movies, pusillanimous characters often provide comic relief, highlighting their fears in contrast to braver characters.
• Comic book heroes sometimes have pusillanimous sidekicks who learn to overcome their fears by the story's end.

Society

• Calling someone pusillanimous can start conversations about societal expectations regarding courage and bravery.
• In competitive environments, those considered pusillanimous may face social stigma, pushing them to conform to bravado standards.

This word's position of #32,531 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 32528 likening
• 32529 inbuilt
• 32530 scarab
• 32531 pusillanimous
• 32532 guttering
• 32534 souffle
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