diffident

Definitions

Modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence.

Hesitant in acting or speaking through lack of self-assurance.

Examples

Despite his immense talent, he remained diffident when asked to perform in front of a large audience.

She gave a diffident smile, clearly unsure if her suggestion would be well-received by the team.

The young student was too diffident to raise his hand, even though he knew the answer to the question.

Synonyms

shy timid bashful reserved modest self-effacing unassertive

Antonyms

confident bold assertive brazen outgoing self-assured audacious