gutless

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈɡʌt.ləs/ (English - US, UK)

Definitions

• Lacking courage or determination; cowardly.
• Devoid of physical strength or energy.
• Without substance, strength, or effectiveness.

Usage Examples

• "The leader was criticized for making a gutless decision under pressure."
• "He was too gutless to stand up for his beliefs."
• "The movie was a gutless adaptation of the original novel."

Etymology

Derived from "gut" (a metaphor for courage or inner strength) and the suffix "-less" (meaning without). First recorded use in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• Cowardly
• Spineless
• Timid
• Weak
• Feeble

Antonyms

• Brave
• Courageous
• Strong
• Fearless
• Bold

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, the "t" is often pronounced as a soft "d" sound, making it closer to "gud-less" in casual speech.

Historical Usage

The term "gutless" has been used in literature and politics to describe individuals who lack the fortitude to make difficult decisions.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, being labeled as "gutless" is considered a severe insult, as courage is highly valued.

More Information

The word "gutless" carries strong negative connotations and is often used in criticism of leaders, athletes, or individuals who fail to take a stand. It is widely used in informal speech and writing.