wimp

Etymology

Possible contraction of "whimper". The term was understood in the United States by the 1930s, as it was incorporated into the names of two famous media characters known for living up to that name: The devious but cowardly Popeye supporting-character called "J. Wellington Wimpy", and the soft-spoken character "Wallace Wimple" from the radio show Fibber McGee and Molly.

noun

1. (derogatory, slang) Someone who lacks confidence or courage, is weak, ineffectual, irresolute and wishy-washy.
2. Alternative spelling of WIMP

verb

1. (intransitive) To behave submissively.
   "They were wimping along and I was accomplished," she asserts with some pride and a touch of arrogance. 1994, Paul Lyons, Class of '66: Living in Suburban Middle America, page 156
2. (transitive) To render wimpy.
   If you're particularly fond of Foster's, Heineken or Moosehead at home, you will be disappointed to find that it's been wimped down for the American market. 2003, Andrea Schulte-Peevers, California, page 69