timid

Everyday

1. Shy and nervous, easily frightened, not brave or confident. tree →
2. Not daring or strong: «a timid attempt». tree →

In the lessons

In stories «timid» describes shy characters or animals: a timid mouse, a timid new pupil who later finds courage. In nature, timid animals like deer run away quickly. In everyday talk it can describe weak efforts or plans. Phrases: «a timid smile», «timid animal», «shy and timid».

Examples

• The timid kitten hid under the bed. tree →
• She was timid on her first day at school. tree →
• Deer are timid and run away from people. tree →
• He gave a timid knock on the door. tree →
• The new boy was too timid to ask for help. tree →
• With kindness, the timid dog learnt to trust us. tree →
• Hares, as you know, are very timid. tree →

Note

Adverb: «timidly». Noun: «timidity». Opposite: «bold», «brave», «confident». «Timid» is close to «shy», but «timid» stresses fear more.