Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DIF'FI-DENT, a.

1. Distrustful; wanting confidence; doubting another's power, disposition, sincerity or intention. Be not diffident of wisdom. – Milton. Be diffident in dealing with strangers. – Anon.
2. Distrustful of one's self; not confident; doubtful of one's own power or competency. Distress makes the humble heart diffident. – Clarissa.
3. Reserved; modest; timid; as, a diffident youth.