(archaic): Lacking confidence in others; distrustful. Lacking confidence in oneself; distrustful of one's own powers; not self-reliant; timid; modest; bashful; characterized by modest reserve.

Is diffidence a noun?

The noun diffidence refers to a lack of self-confidence. ... The noun diffidence comes from the Latin word diffidere, meaning "to mistrust" or "to lack confidence." Diffidence is often mistaken for snootiness because people don't understand that the diffident person is shy and lacking in confidence.

Is activism a noun or adjective?

What does activist mean? An activist is a person who engages in activism—the practice of taking direct action to achieve political or social goals. ... It can also be used as an adjective to describe such people or their activities, as in activist lawyer or activist organization.