Chickening is a term used to describe someone who is showing signs of cowardice or fear. There are several synonyms that can be used in place of this word such as cowering, trembling, quivering or shaking. These words can be used to describe someone who is showing a lack of confidence or bravery in a particular situation. Other synonyms for chickening could include panicking, backing down, withdrawing or shrinking back. These words are all related to the idea of fear or hesitation and are commonly used in the English language. When looking for an alternative to chickening, it's important to consider the specific context of the situation and choose a word that best fits the intended meaning.