cower

博多で読んだ記事から。cowerは「尻込みをする、二の足を踏む、縮こまる、すくむ」あたりの意味ですね。

ちなみにこのCNN Contest about Malala Yousufzaiにはエッセイライティングの指導の際のネタが転がっているような気がします。（UG）

Why Malala's bravery inspires us

As a teenager, it's easy to feel lost, to get swallowed up into the mob mentality and lose your voice. We've all been victim to that; anyone who says they haven't is either lying or under the age of 13 years. And so when a teenage girl undertakes such an incredible task of courage, one adults cower in fear of doing, the event takes on utmost significance. This is exactly what Malala Yousafzai, a huge inspiration to me and so many other girls, did.

Malala stood up for herself, for her education and for her fundamental rights when confronted by a fearsome terrorist group. Malala has created a chain reaction all around the world, bringing change, light and hope to girls across all continents.

http://edition.cnn.com/2013/10/10/opinion/fine-malala-essay-contest/index.html