Definitions:

1. The act of pulling back, hesitating or feeling intimidated when confronted with a particular situation, task or object. VERB
   • Many quailed at the idea of going to war, but he volunteered without hesitation.
2. To react with fear or dread to something daunting, overwhelming, or unpleasant. VERB
   • He quailed at the sight of the massive waves crashing toward the shore.
3. To shrink back in fear, lose courage, or feel intimidated or discouraged in the face of a threat, difficulty, or intense situation. VERB
   • I quail at the thought of having open heart surgery.
   • She did not quail at the thought of speaking before a large audience.

Synonyms:

• apprehend
• cringe at
• flinch at
• recoil from
• shrink from