Old English: cweorn (pronounced "kwurn")
Middle English: coward
Proto-Germanic: kwernaR (literally "a millstone")
A coward is a person who lacks courage or determination, especially in the face of danger or difficulty. It is often used as a derogatory term to describe someone who is perceived as weak, timid, or fearful.
The origin of the word "coward" is believed to be related to the word "cower," which means to crouch or huddle down in fear. In medieval times, when people were attacked by enemies, they would often take shelter in mills, which were seen as places of safety. However, the millstones in these mills were heavy and could be dangerous if they fell on someone.
As a result, people who were afraid of being crushed by a millstone were said to be "cowering" in fear. Over time, the word "coward" came to be used to describe anyone who was perceived as being weak or cowardly.
In conclusion, the word "coward" comes from an Old English word meaning "millstone" and originally referred to someone who was afraid of being crushed by a millstone. Over time, the word came to be used more generally to describe anyone who was perceived as being weak or cowardly.
