nebbish
UK[ˈnɛbɪʃ]US[ˈnɛbɪʃ]
n
a person, especially a man, who is regarded as weak, timid, and ineffectual.
Etymology
the word 'nebbish' entered english in the late 19th century as a direct borrowing from yiddish 'nebekh', meaning 'poor thing' or 'unfortunate person'. the yiddish term itself derives from czech 'nebožák' or polish 'niebożak', both carrying a similar sense of pity for a hapless individual. this slavic root is a compound of a negative element and a word for 'god', literally meaning 'unfortunate' or 'god-forsaken'. the english adoption narrowed the meaning to specifically denote a meek, submissive, and socially awkward person, often with a connotation of pity or mild contempt.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from yiddish. it does not contain separable english morphemes.
Examples
he was a complete nebbish, always being overlooked and never speaking up for himself.
the character in the film is portrayed as a lovable nebbish who eventually finds his confidence.
don't be such a nebbish; you need to assert your opinion in the meeting.