Definition

Noun: A shy person is someone who is uncomfortable, nervous, or hesitant in social situations, especially around unfamiliar people. They tend to avoid drawing attention to themselves and may be reserved or quiet in company.

Usage

This term is used to describe an individual's characteristic temperament or behavior in social contexts. It is a neutral descriptive term.

Examples

• She is a shy person who finds it difficult to speak up in meetings.
• As a shy person, he prefers small gatherings to large parties.
• Don't mistake her quietness for rudeness; she's just a shy person.

Advanced Usage

• "To come out of one's shell": This idiom is often used to describe a shy person becoming more confident and sociable.
  • After joining the drama club, the shy person really came out of her shell.

Variants and Related Words

• Introvert (n): A person who tends to be more focused on internal thoughts and feelings, often gaining energy from solitude. While many introverts are shy, the terms are not synonymous; introversion is about energy source, while shyness involves social anxiety.
• Timid (adj): Showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened. This adjective can describe a shy person's manner.
• Reticent (adj): Not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserved. This often describes the behavior of a shy person.
• Wallflower (n, informal): A person who remains on the sidelines at social events, often due to shyness.

Synonyms

• Bashful person
• Reserved person
• Timid person
• Reticent individual

Antonyms

• Extrovert
• Social butterfly
• Gregarious person
• Outgoing individual

Related Idioms

• Shy away from: To avoid or be reluctant to do something due to nervousness or caution.
  • He tends to shy away from public speaking.

Noun

1. someone who shrinks from familiarity with others