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Region: US | Usage example: Only a yellow belly would abandon the plan now.

Yellow belly

Meaning

A coward.

Usage

Used to insult someone for lacking courage.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Yellow symbolized sickness or weakness.

American slang from the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Fire in your belly

Strong passion or determination.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

Hit the books

Start studying with focus and dedication.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.