yellow streak
1 of 1noun/ˈjɛloʊ strik/
Forms:yellow streaks
1
one's lack of courage to deal with painful or dangerous situations
The phrase "yellow streak" has its origins in the early 20th century and is derived from the association of the color yellow with cowardice or fear. It is used to describe someone who is believed to be lacking courage or exhibiting cowardly behavior. It implies that the person has a figurative "yellow streak" running through them, symbolizing their supposed fear or timidity.
- Don't count on him to stand up for you; he has a yellow streak and avoids confrontation.
- His yellow streak prevents him from taking risks or trying new experiences.
- If he overcomes his fears, he can conquer his yellow streak and become more confident.
- When faced with a dangerous task, he showed his yellow streak and refused to participate.