Quail
Verb
Definition: To feel or show fear or apprehension.
Definition: To draw back in fear or dread.
Synonyms: Cower, Tremble, Shrink, Flinch
Antonyms: Brave, Face, Confront
Examples:
- The young child quailed at the sight of the thunderstorm.
- The soldier did not quail in the face of danger.
Mnemonics:
- Think of a quail bird, often small and easily frightened.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'quelen', from Old English 'cwelan', meaning to die or perish.
Historical Usage:The word 'quail' has been used since the Middle English period to refer to the act of shrinking back in fear or showing apprehension.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Quail in one's boots"
Explanation:To be extremely frightened or nervous.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'quail' with 'quell'.
Explanation:'Quell' means to suppress or subdue, while 'quail' means to lose courage or turn frightened. They are two different words with distinct meanings.