cowardly
Cowardly (adjective) means lacking courage; showing fear when bravery is called for. Example: “It was a cowardly attack on an unarmed man.”
How to use cowardly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBehaving in a fearful, gutless way.
Word forms
cowardlier comparative, more cowardly comparative, more cowardly comparative, cowardliest superlative, most cowardly superlative, most cowardly superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was a _____ attack on an unarmed man.
Etymology
From Middle English *cowardly (adjective) and cowardly (adverb), equivalent to coward + -ly. Displaced native Old English earg.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for cowardly
See all rhymes for cowardly →Frequently asked questions
What does “cowardly” mean?
The word “cowardly” means lacking courage; showing fear when bravery is called for. In plain terms, behaving in a fearful, gutless way.
How do you pronounce “cowardly”?
“Cowardly” is pronounced KOW-uhd-lee (/ˈkaʊədli/ in IPA).
How do you use “cowardly” in a sentence?
Here is “cowardly” used in a sentence: “It was a cowardly attack on an unarmed man.”
What is the opposite of “cowardly”?
The opposite of “cowardly” — its antonyms — is brave.
What part of speech is “cowardly”?
“Cowardly” is an adjective.
Is “cowardly” a common word?
“Cowardly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.