bent back; crouching posture
Describes a posture with the back bent and hips lowered, often from fear or caution.
He crept down the dark hallway with his back bent and knees weak.
timidity; lack of nerve; weak-kneed attitude
Figurative use for a hesitant, cowardly attitude; often implies someone is half-hearted or lacking confidence.
If you negotiate with a timid attitude, you won't get good results.