timidity
UK: tɪˈmɪdəti | US: tɪˈmɪdəti
n. the state or quality of being timid; lack of courage or confidence
timidity = timid<fearful> + ity<noun suffix>
- timid (from Latin timidus, meaning "fearful," derived from timere "to fear")
- ity (a noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality, from Latin -itas)
Etymology Origin:
The word "timidity" traces back to the Latin timidus, which embodies the essence of fearfulness. The suffix -ity was later added in Middle English to transform the adjective "timid" into a noun denoting the abstract quality of being timid. This evolution reflects a common pattern in English where Latin-derived roots combine with suffixes to form new abstract nouns.
Her timidity kept her from speaking up in meetings.
Overcoming timidity is the first step toward self-confidence.
The puppy’s timidity faded as it grew accustomed to its new home.
His timidity around strangers made social events stressful.
With practice, she gradually replaced timidity with assertiveness.