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