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shy1

shy

 
 
pronunciation:
shaI
parts of speech:
adjective, verb
features:
Word Explorer
part of speech: adjective
inflections: shier, shyer, shiest, shyest
definition 1: not comfortable with other people.
The shy child did not talk to anyone in class.
 
synonyms:
bashful, reserved, timid
antonyms:
bold, confident
similar words:
ill at ease, meek
definition 2: easily frightened.
A shy horse should not be ridden near traffic.
synonyms:
skittish, timid
antonyms:
bold
similar words:
fearful, nervous
definition 3: falling short of a necessary amount or number.
The team is shy a few players.
synonyms:
lacking, short
similar words:
deficient
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: shies, shying, shied
definition: to draw back or away from in fear or lack of trust (often followed by "away").
Their cat shies away from loud noises.
synonyms:
shrink, start
similar words:
flinch, wince
derivations: shyly (adv.), shyer (n.), shyness (n.)
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  character, personality