Definition

Adverb: - In a manner that shows a lack of confidence or courage; shyly, bashfully. It describes an action done with hesitation, fear of attention, or nervousness.

Usage

Use "timidly" to describe how someone does something when they are feeling shy, nervous, or not bold. It modifies verbs to show the manner of an action. - It typically comes after the verb it modifies or at the end of a clause. - It can sometimes be placed at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis on the manner.

Examples

• She timidly raised her hand to ask a question.
• The child spoke timidly to the stranger.
• He knocked timidly on the large, ornate door.
• Timidly, the puppy approached the food bowl.

Advanced Usage

• "to venture timidly": to proceed or go somewhere in a cautious, hesitant way.
  • The hikers ventured timidly into the dark cave.
• "to peer timidly": to look cautiously or shyly.
  • She peered timidly around the corner.

Variants and Related Words

• Timid (adjective): showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened.
  • The timid rabbit hid in the bushes.
• Timidity (noun): the state or quality of being timid.
  • She had to overcome her natural timidity to give the speech.

Synonyms

• Shyly: In a nervous or timid way with people.
• Bashfully: In a shy, embarrassed manner.
• Hesitantly: With hesitation or indecision.
• Nervously: In an anxious or apprehensive manner.

Antonyms

• Boldly: In a confident and courageous way.
• Confidently: In a self-assured manner.
• Bravely: In a manner showing courage.

Related Phrases/Idioms

(Note: "Timidly" itself is not commonly the core of idioms, but it describes actions within them.) - "Like a deer in headlights": To be frozen or act timidly due to shock or fear. - When called on, he just stood there timidly, like a deer in headlights.

Adverb

1. in a shy or timid or bashful manner
   • he smiled shyly