δειλός
Lemma: δειλός
Translation: cowardly; timid; fearful; faint-hearted (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek δειλός (deilós), meaning 'cowardly' or 'wretched'. It derives from the root δέος (déos) meaning 'fear' or 'terror'. This word has maintained its meaning of fearfulness or cowardice throughout Greek history. The same root gives us words related to fear and dread in many Indo-European languages.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'δειλός' as sounding a bit like 'daily woes' - someone who is fearful has 'daily woes' about everything.
- Associate with 'dally' in English - someone who is timid might 'dally' or hesitate before taking action.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, cowardice has traditionally been viewed as a significant character flaw, especially for men. The concept of 'philotimo' (honor, dignity) in Greek society stands in contrast to being 'δειλός'. In literature and folklore, cowardly characters often serve as cautionary examples.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'δειλός' means 'cowardly', 'δεινός' means 'terrible', 'formidable', or 'skilled'. They look and sound similar but have very different meanings.
This word:
Είναι πολύ δειλός για να μιλήσει μπροστά σε κοινό.
He is too timid to speak in front of an audience.
Confused word:
Είναι δεινός ομιλητής και μαγεύει το κοινό.
He is a formidable speaker and captivates the audience.
Notes: The difference is just one letter (λ vs ν), but the meanings are nearly opposite - one describes weakness, the other strength or skill.
Mnemonic: 'Δειλός' has an 'λ' (lambda) which can remind you of 'λιποψυχία' (fainting/cowardice), while 'δεινός' has an 'ν' (nu) which can remind you of 'νικητής' (winner/champion).
Explanation: 'Δειλός' means 'cowardly', while 'δήλος' means 'evident' or 'clear'. They have different stress patterns and vowel sounds.
Confused word:
Είναι δήλος ο σκοπός του.
His purpose is evident.
Notes: 'Δήλος' is also the name of a Greek island, which might help remember its distinct meaning from 'δειλός'.
Mnemonic: Think of 'δήλος' as related to 'declaration' (something made clear), while 'δειλός' relates to 'daily fears'.