wuss
5 synonyms for wuss, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An informal, slightly mocking word for someone seen as weak, timid, or easily scared.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use wuss
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
wuss out
such a wuss
Informal and can come across as teasing between friends or as a genuine insult — read the room.
Etymology
US college slang from the late 1970s, likely a blend of "wimp" and "puss," or shortened from "wussy."
Full origin of wuss →Frequently asked questions
What does “wuss” mean?
The word “wuss” means an informal, slightly mocking word for someone seen as weak, timid, or easily scared. In plain terms, a casual, mildly insulting way to call someone a coward or overly cautious.
How do you pronounce “wuss”?
“Wuss” is pronounced wuus (/wʊs/ in IPA).
How do you use “wuss” in a sentence?
Here is “wuss” used in a sentence: “Stop being such a wuss and just ask her to dance.”
What part of speech is “wuss”?
“Wuss” is a noun.
Where does the word “wuss” come from?
The word “wuss” dates back to around 1970. US college slang from the late 1970s, likely a blend of "wimp" and "puss," or shortened from "wussy.".
