shy

Definition

  • verb: to move away from something because of fear
  • verb: to develop or show a dislike or distaste
  • adjective: feeling nervous and uncomfortable about meeting and talking to people
  • adjective: easily frightened
  • usually used with 'from' or 'away from'
  • synonyms: timid, reserved, coy

Examples

  • He was two weeks 'shy of' his 19th birthday when he joined the army.

  • The ball stopped just a few inches 'shy of' the hole.

  • He's three credits 'shy of' his bachelor's degree.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) - Who told you? VINCENT: They. They talk a lot, don't they? They certainly do. They certainly do. Don't be shy, Vincent. What else did they say? Well, I'm not... I'm not shy. Um... MIA: Did it involve the "F" word? (..)
    1994 Pulp Fiction