Definition

The quality or state of being timid, shy, or resembling a mouse in behavior or appearance.

Example

Her mousiness made it difficult for her to speak up in meetings.

Conversation

Have you noticed how her mousiness makes her so shy around others?

Yeah, it really does seem to hold her back sometimes.

I wonder if she realizes that her mousiness affects how people see her.

I think she might, but it's hard for her to change.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mousiness → The word is formed from "mouse" (from Old English *mus*, meaning a small rodent) and the suffix "-iness" (meaning the quality of being). Thus, "mousiness" refers to the quality or state of being like a mouse, often implying timidity or shyness.

Memory Tip

Think of the small rodent, the 'mouse', and how 'mousiness' describes the quality of being timid or shy, just like a mouse.

Visually Confused Words