Skip to content

What is another word for Shy? – 148 Shy Synonyms

    Need another word for Shy? Use these synonyms of Shy from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    bashful timid diffident introverted reserved modest demure coy humble unassuming retiring self-effacing backward hesitant uncertain fearful apprehensive nervous anxious fearful insecure meek mild gentle soft-spoken unobtrusive low-key restrained inhibited restricted constrained limited awkward uneasy uncomfortable embarrassed abashed sheepish introvertish unconfident lacking confidence uncertain self-conscious ill-at-ease

    Meaning of Shy

    Feeling nervous or embarrassed in the presence of others, often resulting in a reluctance to speak or interact

    Definitions

    • Having or showing a disposition to avoid social contact or intimacy because of feeling nervous or embarrassed
    • Lacking confidence in oneself or one's abilities, especially in social situations

    Example Uses

    • She's very shy and doesn't like to speak in front of large groups
    • He's shy around girls and never knows what to say
    • The shy child hid behind her mother's skirt
    • The new employee was shy at first, but soon warmed up to his colleagues

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    outgoing confident extroverted bold fearless assertive forward uninhibited unrestrained unreserved sociable gregarious talkative outspoken forthright direct frank impudent cheeky brazen presumptuous arrogant overconfident pushy aggressive forceful dominant commanding

    Related Nouns

    bashfulness timidity diffidence introversion reserve modesty humility demureness coyness humility unassumingness self-effacement backwardness hesitation uncertainty fearfulness apprehensiveness nervousness anxiety insecurity meekness mildness gentleness

    Related Verbs

    intimidate embarrass abash disconcert fluster discomfort unsettle unnerve rattle disturb perturb bother worry concern frighten scare alarm startle surprise shock stun dazzle overwhelm overawe awe

    Related Adjectives

    bashful timid diffident introverted reserved modest humble unassuming self-effacing backward hesitant uncertain fearful apprehensive nervous anxious insecure meek mild gentle soft-spoken unobtrusive low-key restrained inhibited restricted constrained limited