Cowardly

Definition

Cowardly is an adjective and adverb describing someone’s behavior marked by lack of courage; showing fear or timidity in facing danger, difficulty, or pain.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈkaʊ.ərd.li/
• Respelling: COW-ərd-lee

British English

• IPA: /ˈkaʊ.əd.li/
• Respelling: COW-əd-lee

Etymology

Middle English: from coward + adverbial suffix -ly, from Old French coart ‘tail (of an animal), timid’.

Derivatives

• coward (noun)
• cowardice (noun)
• uncowardly (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• timid
• craven
• pusillanimous
• fearful
• spineless

Antonyms

• brave
• courageous
• valiant
• bold
• fearless

Usage

The adjective "cowardly" is used to describe actions or people who show fear or avoid danger. For example, "His cowardly refusal to help betrayed his character." As an adverb, it modifies a verb to show the manner of action: "He cowardly fled the battlefield."

Related Terms

• Coward: A person lacking courage.
• Courage: The ability to confront fear or pain.
• Bravery: Boldness in facing danger.
• Timidity: Lack of bravery or confidence.
• Craven: Extremely cowardly.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Lacking courage; excessively fearful – showing a tendency to shrink from danger or difficulty.
  • Example: "The cowardly guard abandoned his post."
• Marked by contemptible timidity – deserving of scorn for failing to act bravely.
  • Example: "It was a cowardly act to betray one’s friends."

Adverb

• In a cowardly manner – performing an action out of fear or with lack of courage.
  • Example: "He cowardly hid behind his comrades during the attack."