frightened of (one's) (own) shadow

frightened of (one's) (own) shadow

Easily or constantly spooked, nervous, timid, afraid, or fearfully suspicious. I can't say I have much faith in Johnny helping us on this expedition—that boy's frightened of his own shadow! You can't live life frightened of your shadow—you need to get out into the world and taste adventure! The basement really isn't scary. You can't listen to what Cara says, she's frightened of her own shadow.

See also: frighten, of, shadow

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