First Known Use: 1548
Dictionary
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
1
: socially shy or timid : diffident, self-conscious
2
: 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)
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- backward, shy, coy, demure, diffident, introverted, modest, recessive, retiring, self-effacing, sheepish, withdrawn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
bashful
adjective bash·ful \ˈbash-fəl\
Definition of BASHFUL for Kids
1
: uneasy in the presence of others
2
: showing shyness <a bashful smile>
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