Pronunciation: [jˈɛlə͡ʊ bˈɛlɪd] (IPA) 
The phrase "yellow bellied" is commonly used to describe someone who is cowardly or lacking in courage. It is spelled as /ˈjel.oʊ/ /ˈbɛl.iˌd/, with the "y" in "yellow" being pronounced as "j" and the "e" in "belly" as "eh." This spelling is a result of English orthography, which can be notoriously non-phonetic. Despite its spelling quirks, "yellow bellied" remains a widely recognized idiom expressing a lack of bravery.
Yellow-bellied is an idiom used to describe someone who is cowardly, timid or lacking in courage. The term is primarily used in informal language and has its origins in early American slang. The term "yellow-bellied" is derived from the yellow underbelly of certain animals, which is often associated with fear or submission. This idiom can be applied to individuals who demonstrate a lack of bravery, shrinking away from confrontations or challenges due to their fear of the potential consequences or risks involved.
A person who is yellow-bellied tends to avoid taking risks, making bold decisions, or standing up for themselves when faced with intimidating situations. This term can be used in various contexts, referring to individuals who shy away from physical confrontations, refuse to speak up against injustices, or show apprehension in difficult or demanding situations. It can also encompass individuals who have a tendency to back down from challenges or refuse to take responsibility for their actions.
Additionally, "yellow-bellied" can be used metaphorically to describe someone who lacks determination, fortitude, or resilience. It implies a weakness of character or a lack of mental and emotional strength. This term is often employed to criticize or mock individuals who are perceived as being spineless or easily intimidated.
The term "yellow-bellied" is used to describe someone who is cowardly or lacking in courage. It originated in the mid-19th century in the United States, and its etymology is believed to be a combination of two elements.
Firstly, the term "yellow" has long been associated with fear and cowardice. Yellow is the color often associated with sickness or weakness, and it can also symbolize cowardice in certain cultures. For example, the phrase "to show the white feather" can be traced back to the 18th century, which referred to displaying a chicken's white breast feather as a sign of cowardice in cockfighting.
Secondly, "bellied" refers to the belly or abdomen of an animal. In this case, it may refer to the physical manifestation of fear or cowardice, where one's belly is metaphorically considered weak or lacking in resolve.
