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Caution and Prudence

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Discomfort and Distress

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Fear and Anxiety

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Reactions and Response

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Anxiety and Fear

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timorous

Timorous (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ˈtɪm(ə)rəs/

What does timorous mean?

Characterized by excessive shyness, fearfulness, or hesitancy, often stemming from a lack of self-confidence or anxiety.
"The timorous child was afraid to take the stage for his solo performance."

Detailed Meaning of Timorous

When a person is described as timorous, it suggests that they are prone to feelings of apprehension, nervousness, or reluctance, especially in social or unfamiliar situations. Timorous individuals tend to avoid taking risks or assertively expressing themselves, and they may be easily intimidated or inhibited by the fear of negative outcomes. This term underscores a sense of vulnerability and a cautious, hesitant demeanor, often indicating a need for reassurance or support to overcome their anxiety and become more self-assured.

Example Sentences for Timorous

1. The timorous child hid behind his mother when the stranger approached.
2. The deer, a timorous creature, darted into the woods at the slightest sound.
3. Her timorous voice trembled as she spoke in front of the large audience.
4. The timorous soldier was filled with dread at the prospect of going into battle.
5. Despite her timorous nature, she mustered the courage to stand up for what was right.
6. The timorous kitten cowered in the corner when the dog entered the room.

Origin and Etymology of Timorous

The adjective 'timorous' shares its roots with 'timid' and originates from the Latin word 'timor,' meaning 'fear.' Through the evolution of the English language, it came to be described as 'timorous.' 'Timorous' characterizes individuals or things as being excessively shy, fearfulness, or hesitant, often stemming from a lack of self-confidence or anxiety. Its etymology vividly underscores the connection between this adjective and the emotion of fear. When someone is described as timorous, it suggests a predisposition towards apprehension, caution, and a tendency to shy away from situations or interactions that may trigger anxiety or self-doubt, emphasizing the vulnerability and hesitancy associated with this state of mind.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective timorous:

courageous

fearful

brave

confident

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Timorous

1. The timorous bird fluttered anxiously in the cage.
2. He gave a timorous smile, unsure of how his joke would be received.
3. The timorous student hesitated before raising her hand to answer the question.
4. Despite his timorous demeanor, he was a fiercely competitive athlete.
5. The timorous young prince was not yet ready to assume the throne.
6. The timorous mouse scampered away at the sight of the cat.
7. She cast a timorous glance towards the dark alley before quickening her pace.
8. The timorous expression on her face revealed her true feelings.
9. His timorous approach to decision-making often led to missed opportunities.
10. The timorous child clung to his mother's hand on the first day of school.
11. The timorous tone of his voice betrayed his lack of confidence.
12. She was a timorous traveler, always anxious about missing flights or losing her luggage.
13. The timorous puppy whined and hid under the bed during the thunderstorm.
14. His timorous nature made him an easy target for bullies.