Wuss: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used in informal settings to describe someone who is perceived as timid or lacking courage. It is often used teasingly among friends.

• Don't be such a wuss, it's just a roller coaster.
• He didn't want to go into the haunted house; everybody called him a wuss.

Used in more serious situations to describe someone who lacks bravery and is often seen as a strong criticism. It is inherently negative.

• He was called a coward for refusing to stand up to the bully.
• Running away from the battle, he was labeled a coward by his comrades.

Used to describe someone who is perceived as physically or mentally weak. This term can be considered derogatory and is often used in a demeaning way.

• Don't be a weakling—try to lift the weights!
• She felt like a weakling after failing to complete the hike.

Commonly used in a casual or mildly teasing manner to describe someone who is afraid to do something. It can be used both humorously and seriously.

• You're not going to jump off the high dive? Don't be a chicken!
• Everyone knows he won't try the new food—he's too much of a chicken.

Informal way to describe someone who is weak or lacks courage. Often used in a teasing manner.

• Don't be such a wuss about trying new foods.
• He chickened out of the jump; what a wuss!

Derogatory term used to describe someone perceived as weak or lacking bravery. Can be offensive.

• He backed out of the challenge, calling him a pansy.

Often used to belittle a male who is seen as not conforming to traditional masculine roles. Can be hurtful and offensive.

• Don't be such a sissy, it's just a small spider.

More affectionate and non-threatening term for someone who is gentle, kind, or not harsh.

• He's a real softy when it comes to animals.
• She may seem tough, but she's a softy at heart.