Definition

Someone who is shy and lacks confidence in themselves, often feeling unsure about their abilities or opinions.

Example

Despite her talent, she remained diffident during the presentation, hardly speaking up.

Conversation

I noticed you seemed a bit diffident during the presentation today.

Yeah, I always get nervous speaking in front of people.

You shouldn't feel that way; you have great ideas to share!

Thanks! I guess I just need to work on being more confident.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diffident → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "fidere" (meaning to trust or have faith). The word describes a state of being lacking in self-confidence or trust in oneself, hence feeling apart from confidence.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who feels 'apart' ('dis-') from 'trust' ('fidere') in themselves — that's why diffident means lacking self-confidence.

Visually Confused Words