# timid

/ˈtɪmɪd/ (US) · /tˈɪmɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/timid
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

shy and nervous. You use this to describe someone who lacks confidence and is easily frightened.

For teachers: showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened. Often used to describe personality traits or hesitant actions.

## Examples

- The timid child hid behind her mother's legs.
- He gave a timid knock on the door, unsure if he was actually welcome at the party.
- Investors remained timid despite the positive economic reports, fearing that the market's recent stability was merely a temporary pause before another significant downturn.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'appear'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.