cowardly

cow-ard-ly · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Lacking courage; showing fear in the face of danger or pain.

  2. 2.

    In a cowardly manner.

  3. 3.

    Characterized by timidity or weakness.

Related words

Antonyms: bold, brave, courageous, heroic
See also: brave, coward, fearful, timid
Synonyms: chicken-hearted, fearful, gutless, spineless, timid

Etymology

From Old French "couard" (coward) + "-ly" suffix. Related to "cauda" (tail), suggesting fleeing like a frightened animal.