noun
wimp
wihmp
Wimp (noun) means someone seen as weak, timid, or lacking backbone. Example: “Stop being such a wimp and just ask her out.”
noun
1
Someone seen as weak, timid, or lacking backbone.
"Stop being such a wimp and just ask her out."
"He was called a wimp for backing down from the argument."
verb
1
To back out of something through nervousness or lack of nerve, usually as "wimp out".
"He wimped out of the bungee jump at the last second."
How to use wimp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn informal, mildly insulting word for someone timid or easily scared off.
When to use it
Casual and a bit childish — fine among friends, not for formal writing.
Common pairings
wimp out
such a wimp
don't be a wimp
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Word forms
- Plural
- wimps
- Third person singular
- wimps
- Past tense
- wimped
- Comparative
- more wimp
- Superlative
- most wimp
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Stop being such a _____ and just ask her out.
Etymology
Possibly a shortening of "whimper"; popularised in the 20th century partly through comic and radio characters named Wimpy and Wimple.
Class of 1900
wimp joined the language around 1900.
See the full Class of 1900 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for wimp
See all rhymes for wimp →Frequently asked questions
What does “wimp” mean?
The word “wimp” means someone seen as weak, timid, or lacking backbone. In plain terms, an informal, mildly insulting word for someone timid or easily scared off.
How do you pronounce “wimp”?
“Wimp” is pronounced wihmp (/wɪmp/ in IPA).
How do you use “wimp” in a sentence?
Here is “wimp” used in a sentence: “Stop being such a wimp and just ask her out.”
What part of speech is “wimp”?
Depending on how it is used, “wimp” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “wimp” come from?
The word “wimp” dates back to around 1900. Possibly a shortening of "whimper"; popularised in the 20th century partly through comic and radio characters named Wimpy and Wimple.
How many meanings does “wimp” have?
“Wimp” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: someone seen as weak, timid, or lacking backbone.
