Wimp out
verb
To avoid or not continue with something difficult or challenging due to fear or lack of courage.
Mike was supposed to give a presentation to the whole class, but he wimped out at the last minute.

Often appears as...
- wimp out of something
- wimp out at the last minute
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
verb
To avoid or not continue with something difficult or challenging due to fear or lack of courage.
Mike was supposed to give a presentation to the whole class, but he wimped out at the last minute.

Often appears as...
- wimp out of something
- wimp out at the last minute
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 1

Colloquial Usage
Used mainly in casual conversation rather than formal speech or writing.

I nearly wimped out on the bungee jump, but my friends cheered me on.
Negative Connotation
Implies a negative judgment, suggesting weakness or lack of determination.

He wanted to try the spicy challenge, but he wimped out.
Emotional Implication
Can imply anxiety or fear, not just laziness or lack of interest.

Even though she loves singing, she sometimes wimps out before karaoke.
Colloquial Usage
Used mainly in casual conversation rather than formal speech or writing.

I nearly wimped out on the bungee jump, but my friends cheered me on.
Negative Connotation
Implies a negative judgment, suggesting weakness or lack of determination.

He wanted to try the spicy challenge, but he wimped out.
Emotional Implication
Can imply anxiety or fear, not just laziness or lack of interest.

Even though she loves singing, she sometimes wimps out before karaoke.
Colloquial Usage
Used mainly in casual conversation rather than formal speech or writing.

I nearly wimped out on the bungee jump, but my friends cheered me on.
Negative Connotation
Implies a negative judgment, suggesting weakness or lack of determination.

He wanted to try the spicy challenge, but he wimped out.
Emotional Implication
Can imply anxiety or fear, not just laziness or lack of interest.

Even though she loves singing, she sometimes wimps out before karaoke.
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