shy
UK: ʃaɪ | US: ʃaɪ
Definition
adj. easily frightened or timid; reserved or wary in social situations
adj. (of an animal) reluctant to approach humans
vi. to recoil or draw back in fear or hesitation
Structure
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Etymology
The word "shy" traces back to Old English scēoh ("timid, easily startled"), likely derived from Proto-Germanic skeukhaz ("afraid, averse"). Its core meaning of "avoidance due to fear or discomfort" has persisted, extending metaphorically to describe social reticence or animal behavior. Unlike compound words, "shy" evolved as a compact unit, retaining its simplicity across centuries.
Examples
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