diffidence etymology

Etymology

  • French: diffidence, from Late Latin: diffidentia (lack of trust), from diffidere (to distrust), from Latin: dis (apart) + fidere (to trust)

Meaning

  • Lack of confidence or assurance
  • Shyness or hesitancy
  • A feeling of uncertainty or doubt

Origin

The word "diffidence" entered English in the 16th century. It comes from the French word "diffidence," which is derived from the Late Latin word "diffidentia," meaning "lack of trust." This word is in turn derived from the Latin verb "diffidere," which means "to distrust." The prefix "dis" in Latin means "apart," and the verb "fidere" means "to trust." Thus, the word "diffidence" literally means "a lack of trust" or "a feeling of uncertainty or doubt."

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