Timorous means fearful, nervous, or lacking confidence. A timorous person hesitates to take risks or speak up, often worrying too much about what might go wrong. When a student gives a timorous answer in class, their voice might be quiet and uncertain, as if they're afraid of being wrong. A timorous rabbit freezes at every sound, always ready to bolt for safety.

The word describes a lasting tendency toward fearfulness and caution across many situations. A timorous child might hang back at recess rather than join a new game, or a timorous explorer might never venture far from camp. You might describe someone's behavior as timorous: “She made a timorous attempt to join the conversation.”

Notice that timorous isn't the same as being careful or thoughtful. Careful people assess real dangers and make smart choices. Timorous people hold back even when there's little actual risk, letting worry prevent them from trying new things or speaking up for themselves.