noun
wuss
wuus
Wuss (noun) means an informal, slightly mocking word for someone seen as weak, timid, or easily scared. Example: “Stop being such a wuss and just ask her to dance.”
noun
1
An informal, slightly mocking word for someone seen as weak, timid, or easily scared.
"Stop being such a wuss and just ask her to dance."
"He called himself a wuss for backing out of the bungee jump."
How to use wuss
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual, mildly insulting way to call someone a coward or overly cautious.
When to use it
Informal and can come across as teasing between friends or as a genuine insult — read the room.
Common pairings
wuss out
such a wuss
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Word forms
- Plural
- wusses
- Third person singular
- wusses
- Past tense
- wussed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Stop being such a _____ and just ask her to dance.
Etymology
US college slang from the late 1970s, likely a blend of "wimp" and "puss," or shortened from "wussy."
Related words
Rhymes for wuss
See all rhymes for 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.".
