Diffident

Pronunciation: /ˈdɪfɪdənt/

Definitions of diffident

adjective modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence

Example Sentences

A1 She felt diffident about speaking in front of a large group.

A2 The diffident student hesitated to ask questions in class.

B1 His diffident demeanor made it difficult for him to make new friends.

B2 Despite her diffident nature, she excelled in her job interview.

C1 The diffident CEO surprised everyone with her bold decision-making.

C2 His diffident personality masked his true intelligence and capabilities.

Examples of diffident in a Sentence

formal She appeared diffident during the job interview, lacking confidence in her abilities.

informal He's always been a bit diffident around new people, but once you get to know him he opens up.

slang Don't be so diffident, just go for it and see what happens!

figurative The diffident sun peeked out from behind the clouds, unsure if it was welcome to shine.

Grammatical Forms of diffident

• past tense: was diffident
• plural: diffidents
• comparative: more diffident
• superlative: most diffident
• present tense: is diffident
• future tense: will be diffident
• perfect tense: has been diffident
• continuous tense: is being diffident
• singular: diffident
• positive degree: diffident
• infinitive: to be diffident
• gerund: being diffident
• participle: diffident

Origin and Evolution of diffident

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'diffident' originated from the Latin word 'diffidentem' which means 'distrustful' or 'lacking confidence'.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'diffident' has evolved to mean shy or lacking self-confidence, rather than just being distrustful. It is now commonly used to describe someone who is hesitant or reserved in social situations.