timorous
/ˈtɪməɹəs/
Group 6Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Showing or suffering from nervousness, fear, or lack of confidence GRE
Example in Context
The timorous new employee was reluctant to speak up in meetings, even when she had valuable insights to contribute.
Synonyms
fearfultimidnervous
Etymology
Full of fear — characterized by nervousness.
- timor (Latin) — fear
Memory Aid
😨Sounds like “timid us”
Picture a TIMID cat hiding from a tiny mouse — that's how TIMOROUS it is!
Visual Association
🐱A little kitten trembling behind a curtain, scared of a playful fly buzzing around.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “timorous” mean on the GRE?
timorous (adjective) means “Showing or suffering from nervousness, fear, or lack of confidence”. The timorous new employee was reluctant to speak up in meetings, even when she had valuable insights to contribute.
How to remember “timorous” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “timorous” sounds like “timid us”. Picture a TIMID cat hiding from a tiny mouse — that's how TIMOROUS it is!
What are synonyms for “timorous”?
Common synonyms: fearful, timid, nervous.