Pronunciation: [jˈɛlə͡ʊ bˈɛlɪz] (IPA) 
The spelling of "yellow bellies" can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription. The first word, "yellow," is spelled /ˈjɛloʊ/, with a long "e" sound followed by the "l" sound, and ending with an "oh" sound. The second word, "bellies," is spelled /ˈbɛliz/, with a short "e" sound followed by the "l" sound, and ending with an "iz" sound. Together, this phrase refers to someone who is cowardly or lacking in courage.
Yellow bellies is a colloquial term often used in English slang to describe individuals who are perceived as cowardly, lacking courage or bravery, or easily frightened. The term "yellow bellies" typically refers to people who tend to shy away from risky or dangerous situations due to their fear or nervousness, displaying a predisposition to avoid confrontation or difficult challenges.
The term's origin can be traced back to early 20th-century American slang where "yellow" was commonly associated with cowardice or trepidation. The addition of "bellies" implies that this fear is deep-seated or inherent as it refers to the person's innermost self or stomach, a metaphorical representation of their character.
This term is often used in informal conversations to tease or mock someone who is perceived as lacking bravery in a particular situation, such as a person who backs out of a dare or refuses to confront their fears. However, it is important to note that the use of "yellow bellies" carries a negative connotation and can be seen as derogatory or offensive to some individuals.
Overall, "yellow bellies" is a slang term used to describe individuals who are considered cowardly or lacking bravery, and it serves as a way to express criticism or ridicule towards those who shy away from challenging or potentially dangerous situations.
The term "yellow bellies" originated as a derogatory nickname for people from the English county of Lincolnshire, particularly during the 19th century. The name referred to the distinctive yellow clay soil found in the region, which sometimes tainted the farmers' clothing, giving the impression of yellow bellies. The term gained notoriety when it was used by the British poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson in his comic poem "The Northern Farmer" (1869). Over time, "yellow bellies" became a more general term to refer disparagingly to people who were considered cowardly or lacking in courage.
