Definitions

timid

[tim-id] / ˈtɪm ɪd /

ADJECTIVE

shy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambivalent bashful demure diffident fearful feeble frightened gentle humble modest nervous weak

STRONG

Milquetoast shrinking trembling wavering yellow

WEAK

afraid apprehensive badgered browbeaten bullied capricious cowardly cowed cowering coy daunted fainthearted having cold feet intimidated irresolute mousy pusillanimous retiring shaky soft spineless spiritless submissive timorous unassertive unassured unnerved vacillating

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able bold brave calm conceited courageous egotistical extroverted loud proud strong unabashed unafraid

WEAK

daring fearless

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.

Timid steps at first, but more confident with each one she takes.

From BBC • May 29, 2024

Timid and afraid for her son, Tungsupakul’s character serves as the film’s emotional center.

From New York Times • Aug. 5, 2022

Timid but curious, she allowed me to scratch one of her velvety ears as she sniffed my jacket.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2021

Timid no more, Satoransky continues to make bold statements on the court.

From Washington Post • Jan. 28, 2019

So thinks thy Timid & Affectionate Brother, Evidence Goring My dear Fruition — I have done my Good Work for today & shall set it down.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing timid

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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Emotions on Display

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!