Definitions:

1. A small, ground-dwelling game bird with a rounded body and short tail. NOUN
   • The hunter spotted a quail in the tall grass.
2. To shrink back in fear, pain, or distress. VERB
   • She quailed at the thought of speaking in front of the large audience.
3. Used to describe something or someone small or insignificant, inspired by the bird's size and nature. NOUN
   • He was as nervous as a quail before the presentation.

Synonyms:

• cower
• cringe
• falter
• flinch
• grouse
• partridge
• tremble
• wince