— diffidently , adv. — diffidentness , n.
/dif"i deuhnt/ , adj.
1. lacking confidence in one's own ability, worth, or fitness; timid; shy.
2. restrained or reserved in manner, conduct, etc.
3. Archaic. distrustful.
[ 1425-75; late ME diffident- (s. of diffidens mistrusting, despairing prp. of diffidere ), equiv. to dif- DIF- + fid- trust + -ent- -ENT ]
Syn. 1. self-conscious, self-effacing, abashed, embarrassed, modest, unassuming, unconfident. See shy 1 .