Pusillanimousness
/ˌpjuː.sɪˈlæn.ɪ.məs.nəs/noun
The quality of being timid or cowardly.
Did you know?The term derives from Latin roots meaning 'small soul', suggesting a weakness of spirit that has haunted humanity for ages.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
pusillanimis
“Having a small or weak spirit.”
Middle English
Middle English
pusillanimous
“Timid, cowardly, derived from Latin, used in a more formal context.”
16th Century
Latin
pusillanimus
“Characterized by a lack of courage or confidence.”
Modern English
English
pusillanimousness
“The quality of being cowardly or lacking in boldness.”