cowardice

noun

cow·​ard·​ice ˈkau̇(-ə)r-dəs How to pronounce cowardice (audio)
 dialectal  -(ˌ)dīs
: lack of courage or firmness of purpose
soldiers accused of cowardice

Examples of cowardice in a Sentence

the cowardice shown by political leaders who were willing to give the Nazis whatever they wanted
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa characterized the flight of Afrikaners from his country as an act of cowardice. Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 14 May 2025 The variety of wounds, which were mainly found in the skull, pelvis and torso, and made by weapons including spears, daggers, swords and iron bolts, suggests they were sustained during battle rather than the result of execution – the punishment for military cowardice, the museum said. Amarachi Orie, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2025 Pike publicly criticized the commanders of the regiment for the lack of discipline and cowardice displayed in battle, which eventually led to an inconclusive court of inquiry. Arkansas Online, 3 May 2025 Their children and grandchildren will read about their silence, acquiescence, and cowardice. Tom Zirpoli, Baltimore Sun, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cowardice

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cowardise, from Anglo-French coardise, from cuard — see coward

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cowardice was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cowardice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cowardice. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

cowardice

noun
cow·​ard·​ice ˈkau̇(-ə)rd-əs How to pronounce cowardice (audio)
: lack of courage to face danger : shameful fear

More from Merriam-Webster on cowardice

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