Cower/ˈkaʊər/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Fear Response Cower typically indicates an instinctive response to fear or feeling intimidated. The child cowered at the loud noises. Pro Tip 2/3Intensity Level The act of cowering suggests a strong level of fear, not just slight discomfort or worry. Visitors often cower in the haunted house attraction. Pro Tip 3/3Physical Action Cowering involves a physical movement, such as ducking or shrinking back. During the drill, we cowered under our desks.