poltroon

This term carries a heavy weight of contempt and social shame, evoking an image of someone who is not merely afraid, but utterly devoid of spirit or honor. It is far more severe than "coward," which describes a trait or a specific action, whereas "poltroon" defines the entire character of the person as pathetic and spineless.

In modern usage, the word is rare and feels archaic or literary. It is typically employed in historical narratives or formal critiques to emphasize a profound lack of fortitude, often in contexts involving military failure or a betrayal of duty.