Dif'fi-dence, n.

n. [Lat. diffidentia, It. diffidenza, diffidenza, diffidanda, Sp. diffidencia.] The state of being diffident; distrust; want of confidence; doubt of the power, ability, or disposition of one's self or others; especially, distrust of one's self; want of confidence in one's own power, competency, correctness, or wisdom; lack of self-reliance; modesty; bashfulness.

A caitiff disposition, and diffidence in the day of death. Bp. Taylor.

An Englishman's habitual diffidence and awkwardness of address. Irving.

Synonyms—Humility; bashfulness; distrust; doubt; fear; timidity; apprehension; hesitation. See HUMILITY and BASHFULNESS.