insecurity

Definitions

Uncertainty or anxiety about oneself; lack of confidence.

The state of being open to danger or threat; lack of protection.

The quality or state of being unstable or not securely fixed.

Examples

Her constant need for reassurance stems from a deep-seated sense of insecurity.

The company's financial insecurity led to a series of difficult layoffs.

He tried to hide his insecurity behind a mask of arrogance and bravado.

Synonyms

uncertainty anxiety self-doubt vulnerability instability diffidence apprehension

Antonyms

confidence assurance certainty stability security self-reliance poise