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- pronunciation:
- dI
f
dnt
- features:
- Word Combinations (adjective), Word Parts
| part of speech: |
adjective |
| definition 1: |
unsure of oneself; shy; demure.
The inventor was an unassuming and diffident man who found it difficult to persuade would-be investors.The young substitute teacher addressed the students in a diffident manner.- antonyms:
- confident
- similar words:
- bashful, demure, queer, shy, timid
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| definition 2: |
reserved or restrained in manner.
As he was a diffident man, it was unlike him to show affection.- synonyms:
- reserved, restrained
- similar words:
- cold, distant, formal, remote, reticent
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| related words: |
coy, hesitant, insecure, modest, retiring, taciturn, unassuming |
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| derivation: |
diffidently (adv.) |
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