lily-livered

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

The first known use of lily-livered was in 1605. From the medieval belief that the liver was the seat of courage, and the pale color of the lily flower. A person who had no blood in their liver would have no courage and would thus be a coward. Equivalent to lily +‎ livered.

Pronunciation[edit]

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Adjective[edit]

lily-livered (comparative more lily-livered, superlative most lily-livered)

  1. (idiomatic) Cowardly, lacking courage.

Synonyms[edit]

Translations[edit]