Definition

A person who is shy, weak, or not confident, often avoiding confrontation or assertiveness.

Example

He was such a milquetoast that he never spoke up in meetings.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some people are just so milquetoast?

Yeah, it's like they never want to take a stand on anything.

Right? I think it's important to be assertive sometimes.

Definitely! Being too milquetoast can hold you back.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Milquetoast originates from the name of a comic strip character, "Casper Milquetoast," created by H.T. Webster in the early 20th century. The character was depicted as a timid and unassertive man, and the term has since come to describe someone who is meek or timid.

Memory Tip

Imagine a character who is so soft and timid that he is like a milky toast — this helps you remember that 'milquetoast' refers to someone who is very meek or unassertive.

Visually Confused Words