215 Another Word for Diffident? – Diffident Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say diffident differently? Here are other words for diffident and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of diffident

The primary meaning of the word "diffident" is having or showing a lack of confidence in oneself or one's abilities.

Etymology of diffident

The word "diffident" originates from the Latin "diffidere", which means to mistrust or distrust, and is a combination of "dis-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "fidere" (meaning to trust)
Historically, the word has been used to describe a lack of confidence or trust in oneself or one's abilities, and has evolved to encompass a range of related meanings and connotations

Synonyms

modest humble unassuming reserved shy timid bashful demure coy retiring self-effacing unconfident uncertain hesitant doubtful fearful apprehensive nervous anxious introverted backward unobtrusive lowly meek mild gentle soft-spoken quiet unpretentious simple unaffected artless ingenuous sincere genuine truthful honest straightforward frank open candid forthright unreserved unrestrained free easy natural spontaneous unforced effortless languid lackluster unenthusiastic halfhearted lukewarm tepid cool cold distant aloof detached remote inaccessible unreachable unapproachable

Definitions

  • Lacking confidence in one's own ability or qualities
  • * Feeling or showing doubt about one's own abilities or qualities
  • * Not having or showing enough confidence or courage to do something

Usage Examples

  • She was diffident about her ability to give a good presentation, but her colleagues encouraged her to try
  • * He was diffident in his approach to the interview, and failed to make a strong impression on the panel
  • * The team was diffident about their chances of winning the game, but they managed to pull off a surprise victory

Antonyms

confident self-assured assertive bold fearless courageous daring audacious presumptuous arrogant haughty proud conceited smug complacent self-satisfied assured certain definite decisive resolute firm determined unwavering unshakeable unflinching undaunted unafraid intrepid dauntless stalwart steadfast unyielding unrelenting

Related Adjectives

modest humble unassuming reserved shy timid bashful demure coy retiring self-effacing unconfident uncertain hesitant doubtful fearful apprehensive nervous anxious introverted backward unobtrusive lowly meek mild gentle soft-spoken quiet unpretentious simple unaffected artless ingenuous sincere genuine truthful honest straightforward frank open candid forthright unreserved unrestrained free easy natural spontaneous unforced effortless

Related Nouns

personality trait characteristic quality attribute feature aspect facet confidence self-esteem ego identity individuality temperament disposition nature mentality psyche psychology demeanor attitude posture bearing mien expression face appearance air aura presence

Related Verbs

hesitate doubt fear tremble quake quiver shrink recoil flinch cower cringe grovel fawn toady kowtow bow scrape crouch slink sneak skulk lurk hide conceal cover veil mask disguise pretend feign simulate affect assume pretend feint dissimulate
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