diffidence Hear it!

diffidence Definition

dif·fi·dence (difə dəns)

noun

lack of confidence in oneself, marked by hesitation in asserting oneself; shyness

Etymology: ME < L diffidentia < diffidens, prp. of diffidere, to distrust < dis-, not + fidere, to trust: see faith

diffidence Synonyms

diffidence

n.

diffidence Usage Examples

Converse of object

have: We haue been guided by thee hitherto, And of thy Cunning had no diffidence, One sudden Foyle shall neuer breed distrust Bastard.

Adjective modifier

  • great: I have accordingly felt myself bound, tho with the greatest diffidence and respect, to enter this caveat.
  • apparent: In short, modesty and apparent diffidence, originating mainly in physical causes, were his leading characteristics.
  • natural: Out of respect for the natural diffidence of their author, the essays are presented with only introductory comment.
  • habitual: With habitual diffidence she handed a new manuscript to me and took ( to the Ladies ) momentary leave.
  • such: So it was immediately the more striking that there was such evident diffidence, specifically, on this issue.