pusillanimity

noun

pu·​sil·​la·​nim·​i·​ty ˌpyü-sə-lə-ˈni-mə-tē How to pronounce pusillanimity (audio)
also ˌpyü-zə-
Synonyms of pusillanimitynext
: the quality or state of being pusillanimous : cowardliness

Examples of pusillanimity in a Sentence

the pusillanimity shown by the press on this issue after the administration began applying pressure
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.
Given the President’s long-standing support for corporate tax cuts and deregulation of industry, this pusillanimity is perhaps not so surprising. John Cassidy, New Yorker, 22 Sep. 2025 Even the turbulent Vietnam era didn’t inspire such pusillanimity. Matthew Hennessey, WSJ, 10 Mar. 2022 The pusillanimity of American corporations on this subject continues to astound. Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 26 Dec. 2021 It is often said that, given the rank pusillanimity of most politicians, such backsliding is inevitable. Rich Lowry, National Review, 26 Mar. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Pusillanimity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pusillanimity. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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