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100729-N-8273J-386 NORFOLK (July 29, 2010) Rear Adm. Nora Tyson speaks with media after assuming command of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2, as Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead stands by at the conclusion of the CSG-2 change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). As the first female to command a strike group, Tyson assumed command from Capt. Jeffery Hesterman, acting Strike Group Commander. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tiffini Jones Vanderwyst/Released)
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100729-N-8273J-386
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowardice
Cowardice
Cowardice describes a personality trait which is typically viewed as a negative characteristic and has been generally frowned upon (see norms) within most, if not all global cultures, while courage, typically viewed as its direct opposite, is generally rewarded and encouraged.
"Cowardice" can be difficult to define outside of specific social contexts. In general terms, it is the perceived failure to demonstrate sufficient bravery in the face of an adverse situation. Cowards are usually seen to have avoided or refused to engage in a confrontation or struggle which has been deemed good or righteous by the wider culture in which they live.
On a more mundane level, the label may be applied to those who are regarded as too frightened to defend their rights or those of others from aggressors in their lives.
Etymology
According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word "coward" comes from an Old French word coart (modern French couard), a combination of the word for "tail" and an agent noun suffix. It would therefore have meant "one with a tail" — perhaps one in the habit of turning it, or it may be derived from the dog's habit of putting its tail between its legs when it is afraid.
