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diffident

[dif-i-duhnt] / ˈdɪf ɪ dənt /


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.

In “One of Us,” Elizabeth Day’s shrewd novel of political ambition and personal retribution, the unlikely avenger is a diffident British art historian.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

But the overarching tone, across the board, is oddly diffident.

From Slate • Apr. 25, 2025

They may share an extreme level of competitiveness but they are very different characters, Newey's diffident nature contrasting with Horner's front-foot aggression.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2024

Until now, Scott has been a largely diffident presence in the movies, having distinguished himself most prominently as a masterly TV foil: the Moriarty to Benedict Cumberbatch’s “Sherlock,” the “hot priest” to Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s “Fleabag.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 20, 2023

During the proceedings, the magistrate was diffident and uneasy, and would not look at me directly.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela




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