What is the meaning of chicken out?

It's often used to describe someone who:

* Declines to participate in an activity they previously agreed to.

* Avoids a challenge or confrontation.

* Fails to act on a plan or decision because they are afraid of the potential consequences.

The phrase is often used in a humorous or lighthearted way, but it can also be used more seriously to describe someone who is considered cowardly or lacking in courage.

Here are some examples:

* "I was going to ask her out on a date, but I chickened out at the last minute."

* "He was going to jump off the cliff, but he chickened out when he saw how high it was."

* "Don't chicken out on me now, I need your help with this!"

The origin of the phrase is unclear, but it's likely related to the image of a chicken being timid and easily frightened.