Definition

Noun: 1. The trait of lacking boldness and courage; timidity; lack of resolve: The state or quality of being easily frightened, hesitant to take risks, or lacking in determination and firmness of purpose.

Usage

Faintheartedness is a formal or literary noun used to describe a person's characteristic lack of courage or tendency to be timid. It often implies a weakness of spirit that prevents decisive action. * His faintheartedness prevented him from speaking up in the meeting. * The general criticized the faintheartedness of the troops who hesitated to advance. * Overcoming one's faintheartedness is the first step toward bravery.

Advanced Usage

• "A display of faintheartedness": An instance or demonstration of timid behavior.
  • The leader saw any retreat as a display of faintheartedness.
• "To be accused of faintheartedness": To be charged with or blamed for being timid.
  • The diplomat was accused of faintheartedness for seeking a compromise.

Variants and Related Words

• Fainthearted (adjective): Lacking courage or resolution; timid.
  • The fainthearted explorer turned back at the cave entrance.
• Faintness (noun): While it can mean a lack of strength or clarity, in a specific context, it can relate to a lack of courage or vigor of purpose.

Synonyms

• Timidity
• Cowardice
• Timorousness
• Pusillanimity (formal)
• Spinelessness

Antonyms

• Boldness
• Courage
• Bravery
• Fortitude
• Resolution

Noun

1. the trait of lacking boldness and courage
   • faintness of heart and infirmity of purpose