COWARDS Meaning and
Definition
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Cowards, as per the dictionary, are individuals who lack courage, strength, or bravery when faced with a difficult, challenging, or dangerous situation. The term is often used to describe those who consistently display a persistent and irrational fear or anxiety, causing them to retreat, avoid, or surrender rather than confront their fears or face adversity head-on.
A coward tends to shy away from taking risks, engaging in conflicts, or standing up for their beliefs or principles. They usually prioritize personal safety and security over taking a stance or making a stand, which can lead to a perceived lack of integrity or moral fortitude. This behavior is often seen as a form of self-preservation where one fears humiliation, physical harm, failure, or rejection.
Cowards may engage in actions or behaviors that demonstrate a lack of resilience, assertiveness, or determination. They may resort to deception, manipulation, or unethical tactics to avoid confrontation or responsibility. This quality is generally viewed as negative, as it contradicts the values of bravery, heroism, and honor that are often admired and respected. In essence, a coward is seen as someone who, when faced with challenges, lacks the inner strength, resilience, or moral fiber to confront and overcome them.
Common Misspellings for COWARDS
Etymology of COWARDS
The word "cowards" originates from the Middle English term "coward" or "cowardis", which first appeared in the 14th century. It was derived from the Old French word "couart", meaning "coward" or "fearful". The Old French term, in turn, was influenced by the Latin word "caudatus", meaning "tailed" or "having a tail". This connection to having a tail likely refers to the notion of running away or fleeing quickly, like an animal with its tail between its legs, as an act of fear or timidity. Over time, the term "coward" evolved into its modern English form "cowards", retaining its original meaning of a person lacking courage or bravery.
Idioms with the word COWARDS
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Cowards die many times before their death
The idiom "Cowards die many times before their death" means that individuals who lack bravery or courage often experience intense fear, anxiety, or worry even in non-life-threatening situations. They may constantly anticipate negative outcomes or be tormented by their apprehensions, metaphorically "dying" from fear multiple times before actually facing a real danger or their mortality.
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Cowards die many times before their death(s).
The idiom "Cowards die many times before their death(s)" means that people who are fearful or lack courage often experience intense anxiety, worry, or fear even in non-life-threatening situations. They suffer from constant mental and emotional distress, which can be equivalent to dying emotionally or psychologically multiple times.
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Conscience does make cowards of us all.
The idiom "Conscience does make cowards of us all" is a famous line from Shakespeare's play Hamlet. It means that the presence of a guilty conscience or moral awareness can often cause people to hesitate or be afraid to take action. It suggests that when one becomes aware of the potential consequences or ethical implications of their actions, they may be reluctant to move forward, even if it is necessary or beneficial.
Similar spelling words for COWARDS
- cords,
- cordes,
- forwards,
- -wards,
- cowardice,
- Towards,
- coward,
- cord grass,
- cordgrass,
- awards,
- cordage,
- wards,
- cowardly.
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