へたれ

A colloquial term originally from Kansai dialect that has spread nationwide. Can be used as a noun (「あのへたれ」 = that wimp) or as a な-adjective (「へたれな奴(やつ)」 = a gutless person). Mildly derogatory — used among friends or to describe fictional characters, but can be insulting if directed at someone directly.

Etymology

Possibly derived from へたる (to collapse, to give out), suggesting someone who gives up or collapses under pressure.

Usage

• As a noun: あいつはへたれだ (He's a wimp)
• As a な-adjective: へたれな性格(せいかく) (a gutless personality)
• Common in manga, anime, and internet slang to describe characters who lack backbone

Similar words

• 臆病者(おくびょうもの): coward — more standard and somewhat literary
• 弱虫(よわむし): crybaby, weakling — often used for children
• 意気地(いくじ)なし: spineless person — slightly more formal insult