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Definition of coy

coy

/kɔɪ/
coy
Adverb:coyly
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coy Lexical Profile

coy Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Making a pretense of shyness or modesty that is intended to be alluring or flirtatious.

Example

"She gave him a coy smile from across the crowded room before turning away."

2

Reluctant to give details or make a firm commitment about something regarded as sensitive.

Example

"The spokesperson remained coy about the exact release date of the new software."

3

Genuinely shy, bashful, or modestly reserved.

Example

"The young child grew coy and hid behind his mother's coat when strangers said hello."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for coy
Antonyms
View all antonyms for coy

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse with the homophone 'koi', which refers to an ornamental variety of domesticated carp.

• Rhymes for coy

• Nearby Words

cowslip
cowtown
cox
coy
coyly
coyness
coyote

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed into Middle English from Old French coi ('quiet, still'), which evolved from Vulgar Latin quietus, making it a doublet of 'quiet'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Coy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/coy
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