cowardice

noun cow·ard·ice \ˈkau̇(-ə)r-dəs, dial -(ˌ)dīs\

: fear that makes you unable to do what is right or expected : lack of courage

Full Definition of COWARDICE

: lack of courage or resolution

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Middle English cowardise, from Anglo-French coardise, from cuard

First Known Use: 14th century

Synonyms: cowardliness, cravenness, dastardliness, gutlessness, poltroonery, pusillanimity, spinelessness

Antonyms: bravery, courage, courageousness, daring, dauntlessness, doughtiness, fearlessness, gallantry, greatheartedness, guts, hardihood, heart, heroism, intrepidity, intrepidness, nerve, stoutness, valiance, valor, virtue

COWARDICE Defined for Kids

noun cow·ard·ice \ˈkau̇-ər-dəs\

: shameful fear

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