American Dictionary of the English Language

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Diffident


DIFFIDENT, adjective

1. Distrustful; wanting confidence; doubting of anothers power, disposition, sincerity or intention.

Be not diffident of wisdom.

Be diffident in dealing with strangers.

2. Distrustful of ones self; not confident; doubtful of ones own power or competency.

Distress makes the humble heart diffident

3. Reserved; modest; timid; as a diffident youth.