A 'scaredy-pants' is a person, usually a child, who is easily frightened or timid, demonstrating excessive fear in situations that most people would find harmless or mildly challenging. This term is often used playfully or teasingly to describe someone who is perceived as overly cautious or afraid. It implies a lack of bravery or courage. The term paints a picture of someone overly worried or anxious, often to an exaggerated degree. It's a colloquialism, typically employed in informal settings. The behavior associated with being a scaredy-pants might include jumping at loud noises, refusing to participate in potentially risky activities, or expressing intense fear of the dark or other common childhood anxieties. It often refers to an individual prone to displays of fear and nervousness.
Scaredy-pants meaning with examples
- Little Timmy was such a scaredy-pants; he wouldn't even go trick-or-treating on Halloween night! He was afraid of all the costumes and spooky decorations, refusing to join his friends. Even with his parents, who were encouraging him, he just couldn't bring himself to face the scary things.
- During the scary movie, Sarah hid behind the couch, calling herself a scaredy-pants because of the suspense. She was jumping at every creak of the house! Even though it was just a movie, it made her super scared.
- "Don't be such a scaredy-pants!" Mark teased, trying to convince his sister to ride the roller coaster. He thought she was being silly. This ride is so fun!
- My little brother, unfortunately a scaredy-pants, cried every time there was a thunderstorm. The sounds and flashes frightened him to no end, hiding under his bed.