Timid means shy, nervous, or lacking confidence, especially about trying new things or speaking up. A timid student might know the answer to a teacher's question but feel too scared to raise their hand. A timid mouse scurries away at the slightest sound, while a timid swimmer stays in the shallow end even after learning to swim well.

Being timid isn't the same as being careful or thoughtful. Careful people assess risks and make smart choices. Timid people hold back even when there's little real danger, often because they fear embarrassment, failure, or what others might think. A timid person might avoid trying out for the school play despite loving theater, or might stay silent when they disagree with a friend's bad idea.

When someone acts in a timid way, they're letting fear make their decisions. You might speak in a timid voice when asking for something, barely loud enough to hear.

People can overcome timidity through practice and small acts of courage. The student who finally raises their hand, the swimmer who ventures into deeper water: these are moments when someone chooses action over timidity.