Diffidence

Quick meaning: Diffidence is a noun meaning The state of being diffident, timid or shy; reticence or self-effacement.

Meaning

The state of being diffident, timid or shy; reticence or self-effacement.

More Meanings

1. (obsolete) Mistrust, distrust, lack of confidence in someone or something.

Example Sentences

I have no diffidence of your abilities—only be constant to one roguery at a time

Without scruple—without apology—without much apparent diffidence, Mr. Elton, the lover of Harriet, was professing himself her lover.

[...] [H]ee had brought the Parliment into ſo juſt a diffidence of him, as that they durſt not leave the Public Armes to his diſpoſal [...]

[Charles, King of France]: We have been guided by thee hitherto, And of thy cunning had no diffidence: One sudden foil shall never breed distrust.

Word Forms

• diffidences

Synonyms for diffidence

Depending on context, synonyms include self-doubt, self-distrust.

Antonyms for diffidence

Common opposites include confidence.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include self-distrust, self-doubt, shyness, timidity, reluctance, hesitation.

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