diffidence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Diffidence soon passed into a shy grace that was indefinable and yet became a recognized trait.

From A Young Girl's Wooing by Roe, Edward Payson

Remembering this is an allegory, what do you think each of the following represents in actual life: Bypath Meadow, Vain-Confidence, Doubting Castle, Giant Despair, Mrs. Diffidence, the key called Promise, the King's highway?

From Story Hour Readings: Seventh Year by Hartwell, E. C. (Ernest Clark)

Diffidence is self-distrust; modesty, a humble estimate of oneself in comparison with others, or with the demands of some undertaking.

From English Synonyms and Antonyms With Notes on the Correct Use of Prepositions by Fernald, James Champlin

As this sudden Desertion of one's self shews a Diffidence, which is not displeasing, it implies at the same time the greatest Respect to an Audience that can be.

From The Spectator, Volume 2. by Addison, Joseph

Diffidence may check resolution and obstruct performance, but compensates its embarrassments by more important advantages; it conciliates the proud, and softens the severe, averts envy from excellence, and censure from miscarriage.

From The Works of Samuel Johnson, Volume 03 The Rambler, Volume II by Johnson, Samuel