1. lack of courage or bravery; the quality of being afraid to face danger, difficulty, or pain

Examples

• His cowardice prevented him from standing up to the bullies.
• She was accused of cowardice for refusing to testify in court.
• The soldier’s act of cowardice resulted in his court-martial.
• Many people mistake caution for cowardice.
• His cowardice in the face of danger disappointed his teammates.
• The captain’s cowardice led to the abandonment of the mission.