quailing
Shrinking in fear
Quailing is shrinking back or flinching in fear.
Someone quailing before a threat shows visible loss of nerve: She stood firm while others were quailing.
The word suggests cowering or losing heart rather than simply feeling afraid—an outward display of intimidation or dread.
Involuntary shaking motion
- coweringShrinking in fear
- shrinkingDecreasing in dimension
- flinchingInvoluntary recoil response
- cringingShrinking in discomfort
recoiling · blanching · shuddering · wincing · dread · terror · panic · fright
Showing unsteady resolve
- falteringBecoming unsteady or weak
- shrinking backWithdrawing from perceived threat
- balkingRefusing to proceed
- flinchingInvoluntary recoil response
retreating · uncertainty · indecision · vacillation · reluctance · hesitancy · irresolution · tentativeness
trembling
Involuntary shaking motion
cringing · recoiling · blanching · shuddering · wincing · dread · terror · panic · fright · horror
wavering
Showing unsteady resolve
- falteringBecoming unsteady or weak
- shrinking backWithdrawing from perceived threat
- balkingRefusing to proceed
flinching · retreating · uncertainty · indecision · vacillation · reluctance · hesitancy · irresolution · tentativeness · doubt
quailingstanding fast
Remaining firmly in place
braving · defying · confronting · unflinching · unwavering
quailingstanding tall
Remaining proudly upright
unflinching · unblenching · unwavering · unfaltering · holding ground