Craven

usgb/ˈkreɪvn/
adjective

A person who is very scared and unwilling to do things that might be dangerous or unpleasant.

Despite his big size, he proved to be a craven when it was time to stand up and fight.
Visual representation of "craven" - A person who is very scared and unwilling to do things that might be dangerous or unpleasant.

Often appears as...

  • craven coward
  • craven fear

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "craven"
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Archaic Usage

Craven as an adjective is old-fashioned and rarely used in modern speech.

Illustration for Archaic Usage
Thou shalt not find a craven knight amongst the noble Sir Lancelot's kin.
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Negative Connotation

Craven implies a strong sense of shamefulness and dishonor in being cowardly.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The knight's craven withdrawal from the battle tainted his honor.
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Literary Context

In literature, 'craven' is often associated with Gothic or medieval settings.

Illustration for Literary Context
In the shadowy corridors of the ancient castle, no servant dared to whisper of the lord's craven fear.
Visual representation of the word "Craven"

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