Definition

Verb: * To move or draw oneself away from something, typically due to feelings of disgust, fear, aversion, or reluctance.

Usage

The verb "shrink back" describes a physical or metaphorical recoiling movement. It is often used to describe an instinctive, involuntary reaction to something unpleasant, frightening, or overwhelming. It can be followed by the preposition "from" to indicate the source of the aversion.

Examples

• The child shrank back from the snarling dog.
• She shrank back in horror at the sight of the accident.
• He shrank back from the idea of public speaking, filled with anxiety.
• Investors may shrink back from risky ventures during an economic downturn.

Advanced Usage

• "to shrink back into oneself": To become more timid, withdrawn, or less communicative, often after a negative experience.
  • After the criticism, she seemed to shrink back into herself and stopped contributing to discussions.

Variants and Related Words

• Shrink (verb): To become or make smaller in size or amount. It can also mean to move back or away in fear or disgust, making it a close synonym for "shrink back" in certain contexts.
  • The fabric will shrink in the wash.
  • He shrank from touching the slimy creature.

Synonyms

• Recoil
• Flinch
• Withdraw
• Cringe
• Wince

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Shrink from (something): To be unwilling to do something because it is unpleasant, frightening, or difficult. This focuses more on the reluctance than the physical movement.
  • We must not shrink from our responsibilities.

Verb

1. pull away from a source of disgust or fear