craven
UK: ˈkreɪv(ə)n | US: ˈkreɪvən
adj. lacking courage; contemptibly cowardly
n. a cowardly person
The word "craven" originates from Middle English cravant, meaning "defeated" or "vanquished," likely derived from Old French cravanter ("to crush, overwhelm"). The root crav is linked to the idea of begging or yielding under pressure, reflecting a sense of defeatism. Over time, craven evolved to emphasize cowardice rather than mere defeat, with the suffix -en solidifying its adjectival form. The logic traces a vivid shift from physical surrender to moral weakness.
His craven refusal to confront the bully disappointed his friends.
The general scorned the craven soldiers who deserted their posts.
She criticized the politician’s craven submission to corporate interests.
In the story, the craven villain betrayed his allies to save himself.
A craven attitude rarely earns respect in competitive environments.