Definition

Noun: 1. The feeling or state of being easily embarrassed, shy, or timid, especially in social situations. It is characterized by a reluctance to draw attention to oneself, often accompanied by blushing, hesitation in speech, or avoiding eye contact. This feeling typically stems from modesty, self-consciousness, or a lack of confidence.

Usage

• Bashfulness is an uncountable noun describing a general quality or feeling.
• It is often used to describe a temporary state caused by a specific situation (e.g., receiving a compliment) or a more enduring personality trait.
• Common collocations include:

Examples

• Her initial bashfulness disappeared once she started talking about her favorite subject.
• He tried to hide his bashfulness behind a smile when he was introduced to the crowd.
• Out of bashfulness, she declined to speak on stage.
• The child's bashfulness made it difficult for her to make new friends at school.

Advanced Usage

• "To overcome one's bashfulness": To successfully become less shy or timid.
  • He took a public speaking class to overcome his bashfulness.
• "A fit of bashfulness": A sudden, intense feeling of shyness.
  • A fit of bashfulness struck her when she realized everyone was listening.

Variants and Related Words

• Bashful (adjective): Having or showing a tendency to be easily embarrassed; shy.
  • He gave a bashful grin.
• Bashfully (adverb): In a shy or timid manner.
  • She bashfully accepted the award.

Synonyms

• Shyness: The quality of being nervous or timid in the company of other people.
• Timidity: Lack of courage or confidence.
• Reticence: The quality of being reserved and unwilling to communicate freely.
• Diffidence: Modesty or shyness resulting from a lack of self-confidence.

Antonyms

• Boldness: Willingness to take risks and act innovatively; confidence.
• Assertiveness: Confidence and forcefulness in stating one's views.
• Extroversion: The quality of being outgoing and socially confident.

Noun

1. feeling embarrassed due to modesty