Pronunciation: [kwˈe͡ɪld] (IPA) 
The word "quailed" is spelled with the letters Q-U-A-I-L-E-D. The pronunciation of the word is /kweɪld/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "qu" at the beginning is pronounced as /kw/, which is a combination of the sounds "k" and "w". The "ai" in the middle is pronounced as /eɪ/, which is a long "a" sound. The final "ed" is pronounced as /d/ when the word is used in the past tense.
Quailed is a verb that refers to the act of feeling or showing fear, apprehension, or hesitation, often resulting in shrinking back or cowering. It conveys the sense of being intimidated or overwhelmed by a particular situation or event.
When someone quails, they experience a sudden and intense feeling of fright or trepidation, causing them to recoil or shy away from the source of their fear. This can manifest physically as trembling, shaking, or shuddering, as well as mentally or emotionally, leading to doubt, unease, or faltering confidence.
The term "quailed" is closely associated with the image of a small, defenseless animal, such as a quail, that instinctively tries to protect itself by withdrawing or hiding when confronted with danger or a predator. However, it can also apply to human beings facing threatening circumstances that evoke a similar response.
The word is often used in a figurative context, where individuals may quail in the face of daunting challenges, intimidating authority figures, or even their own anxieties and insecurities. It implies a state of vulnerability, often implying weakness or lack of courage, but it is important to recognize that quailing is a natural and instinctive human response to fear.
In summary, to "quail" means to feel afraid or overwhelmed, resulting in a recoil or shrinking back in response. It conveys the idea of being intimidated, hesitant, or lacking confidence in the face of a threatening or challenging situation.
• Languishing; losing courage.
• A failing in resolution.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "quailed" is derived from the Middle English term "quaile", which can be traced back to the Old English word "cwelan". This Old English term means "to die" or "to perish". Over time, "cwelan" evolved into "quaylen" in Middle English, which meant "to tremble" or "to grow faint". From there, it further developed into the modern English word "quail", which generally refers to shrinking back in fear or timidly recoiling. The past tense form "quailed" is used to indicate when someone has quailed or experienced fear or apprehension.
