Scaredy

A 'scaredy' is an informal term used to describe a person who is easily frightened or made anxious; someone prone to feeling fear. The word often implies a degree of perceived excessive timidity or a lack of bravery. It paints a picture of someone readily startled, hesitant to take risks, and perhaps even prone to avoid situations they perceive as threatening, dangerous, or unpleasant. A scaredy might react with fear to unexpected noises, sudden movements, or even the anticipation of a potentially negative event. The term suggests a general tendency towards fearfulness, possibly due to personality or past experiences. The word can also carry a playful, sometimes even affectionate, connotation, especially when used to describe children or loved ones.

Scaredy meaning with examples

• Little Timmy was such a scaredy! Every time a thunderstorm rolled through, he'd hide under the covers, clutching his teddy bear and whimpering. Even gentle sounds outside made him jump. His sister, on the other hand, loved the rain and the crack of thunder, even though the storm itself frightened many. Timmy's immediate response to a flash of lightning was pure, unadulterated terror.
• Sarah was labeled a 'scaredy' at the amusement park. While her friends eagerly lined up for the roller coaster, she clung to the ground, eyes wide, and her breath coming in short, shallow bursts. The height, the speed, and the perceived potential for danger created a paralyzing fear. She preferred to stay on the calmer rides, enjoying the teacups while everyone else was enjoying the thrill rides.
• My dog, Buddy, is a bit of a scaredy. Even though he's a big golden retriever, he's terrified of the vacuum cleaner. The loud buzzing sound sends him running to hide under the bed. He's also nervous about thunderstorms, and would rather be in the safety of the house. We tried to desensitize him, but the powerful vacuum cleaner always scared him; however, he is the sweetest of dogs, so this is forgiven!
• Mom always teased me that I was a 'scaredy' when I was little. I was afraid of the dark, terrified of clowns, and screamed at spiders. Any noise, loud or otherwise, was cause for tears. She would always be there, though, to comfort me. Despite my anxieties, my parents instilled in me a sense of security and encouraged me to confront my fears over time, which is how I am no longer a scaredy.