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.

But it was "far too timid" in view of "the damage and trauma caused by these practices", she added.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

Still the editor-in-chief of Runway, Miranda is working to smooth her edges to avoid causing a stir in an industry that no longer excuses mistreatment, even though her employees remain timid in her midst.

From Salon • May 1, 2026

Before he entered politics, Wilson would describe the American people as “selfish, ignorant, timid, stubborn” and “foolish.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

There wasn't much atmosphere, wasn't much attitude, wasn't any real standout displays from any of Scotland's go-to men, who were all a bit timid.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

And a request: Will Theo please send him any prints he has by some artists Vincent admires, including Jean-Francois Millet and Jules Breton, on whose studio door he was too timid to knock.

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman

Vocabulary lists containing timid

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

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!