DIFFIDENCE

diffidence, self-doubt, self-distrust

(noun) lack of self-confidence

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

diffidence (countable and uncountable, plural diffidences)

The state of being diffident, timid or shy; reticence or self-effacement.

(obsolete) Mistrust, distrust, lack of confidence in someone or something.

Source: Wiktionary

Dif"fi*dence, n. Etym: [L. diffidentia.]

1. The state of being diffident; distrust; want of confidence; doubt of the power, ability, or disposition of others. [Archaic] That affliction grew heavy upon me, and weighed me down even to a diffidence of God's mercy. Donne.

2. Distrust of one's self or one's own powers; lack of self-reliance; modesty; modest reserve; bashfulness. It is good to speak on such questions with diffidence. Macaulay. An Englishman's habitual diffidence and awkwardness of adress. W. Irving.

Syn.

– Humility; bashfulness; distrust; suspicion; doubt; fear; timidity; apprehension; hesitation. See Humility, and Bashfulness.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition