cower
UK: ˈkaʊə | US: ˈkaʊər
vi. to crouch or shrink back in fear or submission
vi. to tremble or cringe in response to a threat
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The word "cower" traces back to Middle English couren, meaning "to crouch" or "lie flat," likely of Scandinavian origin (e.g., Old Norse kúra, "to doze" or "lie quietly"). Over time, it evolved to emphasize fearful recoiling or shrinking away, reflecting the body language of submission or terror. The word’s simplicity and Germanic roots make it resistant to morpheme breakdown.
The dog began to cower when it heard thunder.
She cowered behind the door, afraid of being seen.
The villagers cowered as the storm raged outside.
He refused to cower before the bully’s threats.
The rabbit cowered in the bushes, sensing danger.