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.

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

From Salon • Apr. 19, 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

But it’s just this supposed difficulty that should ideally qualify him for all but the most timid of book clubs.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

After admitting to being nervous and timid in embarking in her title defence, this was more like the Keys that stunned Aryna Sabalenka in the final a year ago.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

Twice more when I was in the village, I went to look into the office, and twice more I hurried away, too timid to speak to a man dressed so formally.

From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan

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!