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Definition of shyness

shyness

/ˈʃaɪnəs/
shy · ness
Adverb:shyly
•
Adjective:shy
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shyness Lexical Profile

shyness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being timid, nervous, or reserved in the company of other people.

Example

"Joining the drama club helped him gradually overcome his childhood shyness."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for shyness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for shyness

• Rhymes for shyness

• Nearby Words

shy
shylock
shyly
shyness
shyster
si
sialosyrinx

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'shy' (from Old English 'sceoh', meaning easily startled or timid) combined with the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

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