English

Alternative forms

• nebish (less common)

Noun

nebbish ‎(plural nebbishes)

1. One who is fearful and timid, especially in making decisions and plans, in discussions, debates, arguments, and confrontations, and in taking responsibility.

   Actor Rick Moranis often plays a nebbish.

   • 2001, Foster Hirsh, Love, Sex, Death, and the Meaning of Life: The Films of Woody Allen

     “I don't consider myself a nebbish,” Woody told interviewers early in his career, “but everyone else does.”

Derived terms

• nebbishy