Pronunciation: [pə͡ʊltɹˈuːnɪʃ] (IPA) 
The word "Poltroonish" is spelled with a silent "h" and pronounced /pɒlˈtruː.nɪʃ/. The "p" is pronounced as in "pot", the "o" is pronounced as in "go", the "l" is pronounced as in "will", the "t" is pronounced as in "tea", the "r" is pronounced as in "red", the "u" is pronounced as in "put", the "n" is pronounced as in "net", the "i" is pronounced as in "is" and the "sh" is pronounced as in "wish".
"Poltroonish" is an adjective used to describe a person's behavior, actions, or qualities that resemble or reflect the characteristics of a poltroon. Derived from the noun "poltroon," this term conveys a sense of cowardice, timidity, or extreme cowardly behavior.
A poltroon, in its most general sense, refers to an individual who lacks courage, displays excessive fear, or is generally regarded as a contemptibly cowardly person. Therefore, something described as "poltroonish" exhibits similar traits or tendencies to those of a poltroon.
When used to describe a person's behavior, "poltroonish" implies a distinct lack of bravery, showing a tendency to avoid confrontations or challenges due to an overwhelming fear of danger or failure. This term may be employed to criticize someone for their unwillingness to take risks or demonstrate leadership, and instead, opting for submissive or weak actions.
In a broader sense, "poltroonish" can also be used as a metaphorical description for inanimate objects, organizational cultures, or social systems that display characteristics akin to cowardice. It suggests a lack of resilience, an unwillingness to challenge existing norms or systems, or a failure to address significant issues due to perceived vulnerability.
Overall, "poltroonish" serves as a descriptor of behavior or qualities associated with individuals or entities exhibiting cowardice, timidity, or fearfulness in the face of adversity.
The word "poltroonish" is derived from the noun "poltroon".
The noun "poltroon" originated in the mid-16th century and comes from the Italian word "poltrone", meaning a coward or a lazy person. The Italian term itself derived from the Old Italian word "poltrone" or "poltro", referring to a similar notion of indolence or cowardice.
The "-ish" suffix added to "poltroon" forms an adjective, meaning "resembling or characteristic of a poltroon". Thus, "poltroonish" describes someone or something as cowardly or lacking courage.
