timidity

Definition

The state of being timid; shyness.

Etymology

From timid + -ity, from Middle French timidité, from Latin timiditātem.

Example Sentences

• "[…] instead of the joyous voices of his playfellows he hears the rough commands of an unindulgent master or a scolding mistress; — he is continually reproached for his awkwardness and timidity, and reminded of his pauper origin."
• "This willingness to act underscores the German leader’s view that there is much at stake – and that Western Europe’s largest country (both by population and economic power) needs to step up to the demands. Timidity is not an option."