chicken out

Definition

To shy away from a daring task; to decline, refuse, or avoid something due to fear or uncertainty.

Example Sentences

• "We almost convinced his dad to ride the roller coaster, but he chickened out when he saw how high it went."
• "I dismiss Reporters Without Borders. Completely nonsensical. We invited them in for a select committee hearing, and in the true heritage of free speech, they chickened out."