bashful (ˈbæʃfʊl
)
Definitions
adjective
- disposed to attempt to avoid notice through shyness or modesty; diffident; timid
- indicating or characterized by shyness or modesty
Alternative Forms
ˈbashfully adverb ˈbashfulness nounWord Origin
C16: from bash, short for abash + -fulSynonyms
View thesaurus entry=
shy,
reserved,
retiring,
nervous,
modest,
shrinking,
blushing,
constrained,
timid,
self-conscious,
coy,
reticent,
self-effacing,
aw-shucks,
diffident,
sheepish,
mousy,
timorous,
abashed,
shamefaced,
easily embarrassed overmodest
Usage examples
She sat there beside him, but she wouldn't look at him, bashful all of a sudden.
, MR STARLIGHT (2004)"Never bashful , Bradley lumbered up to the general, and made his request.
Ottawa Sun (2003)The pair of us are certainly not bashful about out bodies.
Sun, News of the World (2001)Somehow the shades of the discotheque seemed to melt in bashful awe as she approached.
, LEND ME YOUR EARS (2003)