diffidence Meaning, Definition & Usage

Dif"fi*dence noun

Etymology

L. diffidentia.

Definitions

1. The state of being diffident; distrust; want of confidence; doubt of the power, ability, or disposition of others. Archaic

   That affliction grew heavy upon me, and weighed me down even to a diffidence of God's mercy. Donne.

2. Distrust of one's self or one's own powers; lack of self-reliance; modesty; modest reserve; bashfulness.

   It is good to speak on such questions with diffidence. Macaulay.

   An Englishman's habitual diffidence and awkwardness of adress. W. Irving.

   Syn. -- Humility; bashfulness; distrust; suspicion; doubt; fear; timidity; apprehension; hesitation. See Humility, and Bashfulness.