Scaredy-cat

A scaredy-cat is a person, usually a child, who is easily frightened or shows excessive fear, often about things that others consider harmless or insignificant. This term implies a lack of courage and a tendency to avoid situations that might involve risk or challenge. The behavior associated with being a scaredy-cat can include exaggerated reactions to perceived threats, clinging to familiar people or places, and avoiding new or unfamiliar experiences. The term is often used playfully or teasingly, although it can also be used to describe genuine anxiety.

Scaredy-cat meaning with examples

• Little Timmy was such a scaredy-cat; he refused to go trick-or-treating, even though his friends promised to protect him from any monsters.
• My younger sister is a scaredy-cat; she screams if she sees a spider, which causes my family to go running for the nearest shoe.
• After watching the scary movie, the scaredy-cat refused to turn off the lights and made sure to check under her bed repeatedly.
• Don't be such a scaredy-cat! It's just a roller coaster; the thrill will be over before you know it, and you can ride it again.
• Sarah called herself a scaredy-cat for being too nervous to interview for her dream job; she almost didn't apply!