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Definitions

shy

[shahy] / ʃaɪ /
ADJECTIVE
quiet and self-conscious
Synonyms
STRONGEST
afraid apprehensive bashful cautious circumspect coy demure diffident fearful hesitant humble introverted modest nervous reluctant reticent self-effacing sheepish suspicious timid wary
STRONG
disinclined indisposed introvert loner recessive reserved retiring shrinking
WEAK
averse backward chary conscious distrustful loath shamefaced skittish unassertive unassured uneager uneffusive unresponsive unsocial unwilling
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aggressive bold brave calm careless conceited confident courageous eager egotistical extroverted fearless forward heedless immodest incautious indiscreet proud rash unabashed unafraid unashamed uncareful unfearful unshy unworried
STRONG
bent disposed inclined outgoing willing
WEAK
adequate enough unreserved
ADJECTIVE
lacking, failing
Synonyms
STRONG
scant scanty short wanting
WEAK
deficient inadequate insufficient scarce unsufficient
Antonyms
STRONG
adequate sufficient
WEAK
enough

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is reconnecting them with their identity — they were once shy, taught to speak languages, understand histories, and importantly find common ground with their grandparents.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

Brent was briefly trading just shy of $100 a barrel after the New York Times External link reported that Vice President JD Vance’s trip to Islamabad had been delayed.

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

Welsh leader Anthony Slaughter told the BBC that he "won't shy away" from independence but believes the issue is "not front and centre of this campaign".

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

“There’s people who don’t understand, but that’s not the majority of Americans. Don’t be shy to be an Arab or to be a Muslim in this country.“

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

It’s a familiar, almost shy smile, like when my cousin would first arrive for a visit.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Vocabulary lists containing shy

Scrabble: Words with no Vowels

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myPerspectives 6.2

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Mr. Popper’s Penguins

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