cower

Short definition from Wiktionary

Verb

1. 1
   To crouch or cringe, or to avoid or shy away from something, in fear.
2. 2
   To crouch in general.
3. 3
   To cause to cower; to frighten into submission.
4. 4
   To be a coward; to hide away or refuse to face opposition due to fear.
5. 5
   To cherish with care.