quailed
/kweɪld/
VERB
1. To lose heart or courage
To become frightened, intimidated, or discouraged; to shrink back or lose courage when faced with danger, difficulty, or a threatening situation.
1.1. Shrinking back from fear
Describes a reaction of fear in which someone instinctively draws back, becomes timid, or shows signs of apprehension when confronted with something threatening.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- She quailed at the thought of confronting her fears.
- The soldier never quailed in the face of danger.
- The students quailed when they heard about the challenging exam.
Related Words
- fear
- fright
- apprehension
- intimidation
- anxiety
- timidity
- cowardice
1.2. Losing confidence or determination
Describes becoming hesitant, uncertain, or less resolute when facing pressure, difficulty, or an intimidating challenge.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- Even in the darkness, her determination never quailed.
- He quailed when faced with the responsibility of leading the team.
Related Words
- discouragement
- uncertainty
- hesitation
- resolve
- determination
- perseverance
- confidence
VERB
2. To waste away or wither
To become weaker, diminish, fade, or gradually lose vitality.
2.1. Declining strength or vitality
An older or less common use describing something gradually losing strength, vigor, or vitality.
Synonyms
Examples
- His strength quailed after months of illness.
Related Words
VERB
3. To slacken or give way
Of courage, faith, or another quality, to weaken, diminish, or become less firm.
3.1. Courage or faith weakening
Describes courage, faith, or determination losing strength or firmness under pressure or adversity.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- strengthened
- persisted
- endured
Examples
- Her courage never quailed despite the difficulties she faced.
Related Words
- courage
- faith
- resolve
- conviction
- determination
- resilience