Definitions

diffident

[dif-i-duhnt] / ˈdɪf ɪ dənt /

ADJECTIVE

hesitant; unconfident

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bashful demure meek self-conscious self-effacing sheepish timid unassuming

STRONG

shy unsure

WEAK

backward blenching chary constrained coy distrustful doubtful dubious flinching humble insecure modest mousy rabbity reluctant reserved retiring shrinking suspicious timorous unassertive unassured unobtrusive unpoised withdrawn

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aggressive bold brave confident extroverted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In “One of Us,” Elizabeth Day’s shrewd novel of political ambition and personal retribution, the unlikely avenger is a diffident British art historian.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

But the overarching tone, across the board, is oddly diffident.

From Slate • Apr. 25, 2025

She is as diffident and self-doubting as LuPone is fearless and forthright.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2024

They may share an extreme level of competitiveness but they are very different characters, Newey's diffident nature contrasting with Horner's front-foot aggression.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2024

A British reporter covering the trial marveled at "this crew-cut, diffident, simple, rather polite man, surrounded by the entire apparatus of Soviet law."

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau

Vocabulary lists containing diffident

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!