wimp out
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To decide not to do something because you are too scared or not strong enough.
Literal meaning: To go out in the manner of a wimp — backing down instead of facing something.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To avoid doing something challenging or courageous because of fear or weakness.
"He said he'd do the bungee jump but wimped out at the last second."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To withdraw from a commitment or difficult situation out of a lack of resolve.
"Don't wimp out on us now — we need everyone to come to the protest."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Mildly derogatory; implies the person is being weak or cowardly. Common in American English, used both seriously and playfully among friends. The noun 'wimp' (a weak or timid person) is the base.
Commonly used with
challenge dare confrontation commitment moment
Forms
Base
wimp out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wimps out
he/she/it
Past simple
wimped out
yesterday
Past participle
wimped out
have + pp
-ing form
wimping out
continuous
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Synonyms
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