poltroonery

/pɔl'tru:nəri/

Thân thiện

A soldier shows poltroonery by hiding from the battle.

Definition

Noun: - Abject cowardice; contemptible lack of courage: The word "poltroonery" refers to the quality or behavior of a complete coward, characterized by ignoble fear and a shameful failure to act with bravery.

Usage

"Poltroonery" is a formal and literary noun used to describe behavior that is not just timid, but despicably cowardly. It implies a strong judgment and contempt for the person displaying such a lack of courage. - His refusal to defend his principles was seen not as caution but as sheer poltroonery. - The general condemned the poltroonery of the soldiers who deserted their posts.

Advanced Usage

• "Poltroonery" in historical or literary criticism: The term is often used to analyze characters or historical figures, judging their moral failure in the face of duty or danger.
  • The biographer highlighted the king's poltroonery during the crisis, which led to the kingdom's fall.

Variants and Related Words

• Poltroon (n): An utter coward; a base or contemptible person who lacks courage.
  • He was branded a poltroon for his actions.

Synonyms

• Cowardice
• Pusillanimity
• Cravenness
• Timorousness
• Spinelessness

Antonyms

• Bravery
• Courage
• Valor
• Fortitude
• Fearlessness

Học thuật

Noun

1. abject pusillanimity