Gutless
/ˈɡʌt.ləs/noun
Lacking courage or determination.
Did you know?English has long linked the belly and intestines with courage and inner strength, which is why “gut” became a metaphor for bravery and instinct rather than just anatomy.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
gut
“intestines; entrails”
Middle English
ME
gutte
“intestines; bowels”
16th Century
English
gut
“the intestines; also, by extension, courage or emotional instinct”
19th Century
English
gutless
“lacking guts; cowardly”
Modern English
English
gutless
“lacking courage or resolve”