Shy

Shy is an adjective describing someone who is hesitant, timid, or uncomfortable in social situations.

It often stems from a fear of judgment, criticism, or negative attention. A Shy person may avoid interacting with others, speak softly or hesitantly, and generally feel self-conscious in social settings.

While shyness can be a personality trait, it can also be a temporary state brought on by unfamiliar circumstances or feelings of vulnerability.

It's important to differentiate shyness from social anxiety; while shyness is common, social anxiety is a more intense condition that significantly impacts daily life.

Shy meaning with examples

Despite being incredibly talented, Sarah was too Shy to perform her music in front of a large audience, preferring the privacy of her bedroom.
The new kitten was incredibly Shy at first, hiding under the sofa and only emerging when everyone was asleep and it was safe to eat.
Mark confessed that he used to be very Shy in high school, but joining the debate team helped him build confidence and overcome his fears.
Even though he's a successful businessman now, he admits he was a Shy and awkward teenager, preferring books to parties and social gatherings.
Having moved to a new school, the Shy student found it difficult to make new friends and often ate lunch alone in the library, lost in her books.

Shy Synonyms

bashful demure diffident introverted reserved retiring self-conscious timid unassertive

Shy Antonyms

assertive bold brave confident extroverted gregarious outgoing sociable

Shy Crossword Answers

3 Letters

COY

4 Letters

BALK

5 Letters

TIMID START SHORT OWING FLING CHARY

6 Letters

DEMURE SHRINK MODEST RECOIL UNSURE

7 Letters

BASHFUL

8 Letters

RETICENT RETIRING RESERVED TIMOROUS SKITTISH

9 Letters

WITHDRAWN RECLUSIVE SHRINKING DEFICIENT DIFFIDENT

10 Letters

SHAMEFACED UNEFFUSIVE UNASSUMING

11 Letters

INTROVERTED UNASSERTIVE