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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

  • (..) - Five months, three days. - Started at noon. - Nine hours. Get married. Have a bunch of kids. Okay. Excuse me. My buddy's kind of shy, but he thinks you are hot. Here it is. I don't know what to say. Years from now, you know what people'll say? (..)
    2002 Men in Black II