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noun

cowardice

KOW-uh-dihs

Cowardice (noun) means a lack of courage; the quality of being too afraid to do what is right or necessary. Example: “His silence in the meeting was seen as an act of cowardice.”

noun
1
A lack of courage; the quality of being too afraid to do what is right or necessary.
"His silence in the meeting was seen as an act of cowardice."
"True cowardice is knowing what's right and doing nothing."

How to use cowardice

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe state or behavior of being a coward.

Common pairings
act of cowardice accused of cowardice moral cowardice

Word forms

cowardices plural

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His silence in the meeting was seen as an act of _____.

Etymology

From Middle English cowardise, borrowed from Anglo-Norman cuardise (modern French couardise).

Origin: Middle English

Related words

Rhymes for cowardice

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Frequently asked questions

What does “cowardice” mean?

The word “cowardice” means a lack of courage; the quality of being too afraid to do what is right or necessary. In plain terms, the state or behavior of being a coward.

How do you pronounce “cowardice”?

“Cowardice” is pronounced KOW-uh-dihs (/ˈkaʊɚdɪs/ in IPA).

How do you use “cowardice” in a sentence?

Here is “cowardice” used in a sentence: “His silence in the meeting was seen as an act of cowardice.”

What is the opposite of “cowardice”?

The opposite of “cowardice” — its antonyms — is courage.

What part of speech is “cowardice”?

“Cowardice” is a noun.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from Wiktionary