Wimp: meaning, definitions and examples

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wimp

[wɪmp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

weak person

A person who is weak, timid, or lacking in courage. Wimps tend to avoid confrontation and shy away from difficult situations.

Synonyms

chicken, coward, weakling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wimp	This word is often used informally to describe someone who lacks courage or strength. It can be used in a teasing manner, but can also be quite insulting. Don't be such a wimp, just go talk to her! He refused to go on the roller coaster because he's a bit of a wimp.
coward	This word is quite strong and has a negative connotation. It implies that the person is afraid to face danger or difficulty, and can be seen as a significant insult. He was called a coward for not standing up to the bully. People may think you're a coward if you keep avoiding conflicts.
weakling	This term is often used to describe someone who is physically or mentally weak. It can be used in a derogatory way to make someone feel inferior. They called him a weakling because he couldn't lift the heavy weights. Only a weakling would back down from this challenge.
chicken	This term is commonly used in a playful or mocking way to describe someone who is easily scared or afraid to do something. It's frequently used among friends, but can be hurtful if said with malice. I can't believe you're too chicken to try the spicy food! Stop being a chicken and come boarding with us.

Examples of usage

He's such a wimp, he never stands up for himself.
Don't be such a wimp, stand up and face your fears.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

weakling

A person who is physically or emotionally weak and lacks strength or resilience.

Synonyms

chicken, coward, wuss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wimp	Repeats 'wimp' which has already been defined above.
coward	A more serious and strong term used to describe someone who is afraid to do something, especially something brave or necessary. It has a clearly negative connotation. He refused to help in the fight, showing himself to be a coward. Running away from your problems makes you a coward.
wuss	An informal term with a slightly derogatory tone, often used to imply someone is weak or afraid, particularly in physical contexts. He didn't join the game because he's a wuss. Don't be such a wuss, it's just a little cold outside.
chicken	Typically used in a playful or teasing manner to call someone scared or unwilling to take a risk. Often used among friends or in informal situations. You're not going to jump? Don't be a chicken! She didn't go on the roller coaster because she's a chicken.

Examples of usage

He's always been a bit of a wimp when it comes to physical challenges.
She's such a wimp, she can't even lift a heavy box.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated in the 1960s and is believed to be a shortening of the word 'wimpish'.
There’s a theory that it might be related to the English dialect term 'wimple', which means 'to collapse' or 'to curl up'.

Pop Culture

In popular media, wimps are often portrayed as comic relief characters, emphasizing their fears in contrast to the heroes.
The term has been used in various movies and shows, creating a common image of a clumsy or non-heroic person.

Psychology

Labeling someone a 'wimp' can be damaging, as it may reinforce negative self-image and social anxiety.
This term reflects societal expectations of masculinity, often wrongly equating emotional expression or vulnerability with weakness.

Literature

In children's literature, wimpy characters often learn lessons about courage and self-acceptance, overcoming their fears.
Judy Blume’s 'Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing' features characters that play on this notion, embodying conflicts between wimpy traits and bravery.

Sociology

The negative connotation of being a 'wimp' can enforce traditional gender roles, promoting the idea that men must always be tough.
As society evolves, many groups are challenging this stigma, encouraging a broader definition of strength that embraces vulnerability.

Translations

Translations of the word "wimp" in other languages:

🇵🇹 covarde

🇮🇳 कमज़ोर

🇩🇪 Schwächling

🇮🇩 pengecut

🇺🇦 слабак

🇵🇱 tchórz

🇯🇵 弱虫 (yowamushi)

🇫🇷 lâche

🇪🇸 cobarde

🇹🇷 ödlek

🇰🇷 겁쟁이 (geopjaeng-i)

🇸🇦 جبان (jabaan)

🇨🇿 zbabělec

🇸🇰 zbabelec

🇨🇳 懦夫 (nuòfū)

🇸🇮 strahopet

🇮🇸 vesalingur

🇰🇿 қорқақ

🇬🇪 ლაჩარი (lachari)

🇦🇿 qorxaq

🇲🇽 cobarde

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,663 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33660 crotchet
33661 straggle
33662 shovelling
33663 wimp
33664 wistfulness
33665 indefatigably
33666 mellowing
...