diffidence

noun

dif·​fi·​dence ˈdi-fə-dən(t)s How to pronounce diffidence (audio)
-fə-ˌden(t)s
Synonyms of diffidence
: the quality or state of being unassertive or bashful : the quality or state of being diffident

Examples of diffidence in a Sentence

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.
And has done so with the kind of diffidence that can only come from a lifetime in the sports backwaters. — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2025 But Cropper’s diffidence about his abilities was the perfect mindset for a rhythm guitarist, whose job is to serve the song and the band rather than himself. — David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 5 Dec. 2025 The concern now is not diffidence in New Delhi, but diffidence in Washington. — Nirupama Rao, Foreign Affairs, 30 July 2025 And that eye could see past Dorothy’s drab uniform and Cindy Brady pigtails, her tall girl’s diffidence and her sweet girl’s shyness, to the bombshell smoldering underneath. — Lili Anolik, Vanity Fair, 12 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for diffidence

Word History

Etymology

Middle English dyffidence, borrowed from Latin diffīdentia, from diffīdent-, diffīdens "distrustful, diffident" + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of diffidence was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

diffide
diffidence
diffidency
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Diffidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diffidence. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on diffidence

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for diffidence

Nglish: Translation of diffidence for Spanish Speakers

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