Cower

Verb

Definition: To crouch or shrink back in fear or servility.

Synonyms: Cringe, Tremble, Quail

Antonyms: Confront, Face, Stand up

Examples:

The dog cowered in the corner, afraid of the thunderstorm.
He cowered before his boss, afraid of losing his job.

Mnemonics:

Think of a scared dog cowering away from a loud noise.
Picture someone cowering in fear, their body shrinking back.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'coweren', probably related to Middle Low German 'kuren' meaning "crouch".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the Middle Ages, maintaining its meaning of shrinking back in fear or servility.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Cower in fear"

Explanation:

To exhibit extreme fear or timidity, often used to describe someone's reaction to a threatening or intimidating situation.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'cower' with 'cowerer'.

Explanation:

'Cower' is the verb form, while 'cowerer' is a non-standard, uncommon noun form. The correct noun form is 'coward', which refers to a person who lacks courage.