shy
shy Lexical Profile
shy Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Being reserved, timid, or nervous in the company of other people.
"The new student was initially quite shy during class discussions, though she soon warmed up to her peers."
Less than a specified amount or number; falling short (typically followed by 'of').
"The charity drive raised an impressive sum, finishing just a few hundred dollars shy of its annual goal."
Wary, cautious, or reluctant toward a particular thing or experience, often due to past difficulties.
"After last year's market downturn, many small investors remain shy of high-risk technology stocks."
• verb
To startle and draw back or turn aside suddenly from fear or caution (especially of a horse, or figuratively of a person avoiding an action).
"The thoroughbred shied at the loud thunderclap just before entering the starting gate."
To fling or throw something with a swift, sidelong motion.
"He picked up a flat pebble and shied it across the calm surface of the pond."
• noun
A sudden startled movement backward or aside, especially by a horse.
"The rider maintained her balance despite the horse's sudden shy at the fluttering plastic bag."
British An act of throwing or flinging something at a target, especially in a traditional fairground game.
"At the village fête, children lined up to take a shy at the coconuts."
• Rhymes for shy
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English schy, derived from Old English sceoh ('timid, easily startled'), from Proto-Germanic *skiuhwaz. The sense of 'throwing or flinging' emerged in the late 18th century of uncertain origin.