Lily-livered

Meaning

The idiom "lily-livered" is used to describe someone who is cowardly, timid, or lacks courage. It can also refer to someone who is dishonest or unreliable. The term is often used in a negative way and suggests that the person being described has a weak character.

Usage

• The boss was lily-livered when it came to making tough decisions, always choosing the easy option over what was best for the company.
• My friend accused me of being lily-livered when I backed out of our plans at the last minute.
• Despite his tough exterior, he showed signs of being lily-livered when faced with danger.
• The politician was lily-livered during the debate, refusing to answer any difficult questions.
• When the situation became too risky, the climber proved to be lily-livered and chose to turn back.

Roots and History

The idiom "lily-livered" has been in use since at least the 18th century. It originated from the idea that a liver was weak if it was full of fatty deposits, which were often associated with lack of courage or fearfulness. In contemporary language, the term is used more broadly to describe someone who lacks character or is cowardly.

Synonyms in English

• Timid
• Cowardly
• Weak-wristed
• Feeble-minded
• Wimpy

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: timido/a (timid)
• French: effrayé/e (scared)
• German: freudlos/a (cowardly)
• Italian: timido/a (timid)
• Russian: мыслителенький/а (cowardly)

Similar Idioms

• green thumb

• feel blue

• level playing field