GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Diffidence , n. [L. diffidentia.]
   The state of being diffident; distrust; want of confidence; doubt of the power, ability, or disposition of others. [Archaic]
   1913 Webster
   That affliction grew heavy upon me, and weighed me down even to a diffidence of God's mercy.
   Donne.
   
   1913 Webster
   Distrust of one's self or one's own powers; lack of self-reliance; modesty; modest reserve; bashfulness.
   1913 Webster
   It is good to speak on such questions with diffidence.
   Macaulay.
   
   1913 Webster
   An Englishman's habitual diffidence and awkwardness of address.
   W. Irving.
   Syn. -- Humility; bashfulness; distrust; suspicion; doubt; fear; timidity; apprehension; hesitation. See Humility, and Bashfulness.
   1913 Webster