bashful

adjective bash·ful \ˈbash-fəl\

: nervous or uncomfortable in social situations : afraid to talk to people because of a lack of confidence

Full Definition of BASHFUL

: socially shy or timid : diffident, self-conscious

: resulting from or typical of a bashful nature <a bashful smile>

— bash·ful·ly \-fə-lē\ adverb

— bash·ful·ness \-fəl-nəs\ noun

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Origin of BASHFUL

obsolete bash (to be abashed)

First Known Use: 1548

Related to BASHFUL

Synonyms: backward, shy, coy, demure, diffident, introverted, modest, recessive, retiring, self-effacing, sheepish, withdrawn

Antonyms: extroverted (also extraverted), immodest, outgoing

Synonym Discussion of BASHFUL

shy, bashful, diffident, modest, coy mean not inclined to be forward. shy implies a timid reserve and a shrinking from familiarity or contact with others <shy with strangers>. bashful implies a frightened or hesitant shyness characteristic of childhood and adolescence <a bashful boy out on his first date>. diffident stresses a distrust of one's own ability or opinion that causes hesitation in acting or speaking <felt diffident about raising an objection>. modest suggests absence of undue confidence or conceit <modest about her success>. coy implies a pretended shyness <put off by her coy manner>.

BASHFUL Defined for Kids