Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

yellow-streak

noun
/ˈjɛl.oʊ striːk/
Definition
A yellow streak refers to a line or band of yellow color or pigment that appears on a surface, often used metaphorically to describe a person’s cowardice or lack of moral courage.
Examples
  • The artist used a yellow-streak in her painting to signify hope.
  • Despite his bravado, many suspected he had a yellow-streak and would not face challenges head-on.
Meaning
Specifically, it can denote both a physical characteristic on an object and a figurative trait in a person’s character.
Synonyms
  • cowardice
  • timidity
  • fearfulness
  • spinelessness