Cowardice is derived from the Old French word coart (11th century), meaning "cowardly" or "timid". This word is in turn derived from the Latin word cauda, meaning "tail", which was often used figuratively to refer to a person who lacks courage.
Cowardice is the quality of being easily frightened or lacking in courage. It is often used to describe someone who avoids danger or difficulty, or who fails to stand up for what they believe in.
The origin of the word "cowardice" may be related to the observation that animals often flee when their tails are exposed. In many cultures, the tail is seen as a symbol of vulnerability and weakness, and so someone who is cowardly may be said to have "no tail".
Another possible origin of the word "cowardice" is from the Old French word coard, meaning "rope". This word may have been used to describe someone who was tied up or restrained, and therefore unable to fight or defend themselves. Over time, the word "coard" came to be used more generally to describe someone who is timid or lacking in courage.
