DIFFIDENT - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Part of speech: Adjective

showing modest reserve

Example: she was diffident when offering a comment on the professor's lecture

Part of speech: Adjective

lacking self-confidence

Example: stood in the doorway diffident and abashed; problems that call for bold not timid responses; a very unsure young man

The word "diffident" was borrowed from Latin diffīdentem.

defiant – A related word in the same word family.

Many Latin words entered English twice—once through French and once through direct borrowing.