Synonyms for shyness
Definitions
- n. 1
The quality of being shy; a fear of social interactions.
Her shyness kept her from asking him to the prom.
Related words
- Phrases
- canopy shyness crown shyness
Forms
- Plural
- shynesses → diffidences, timidities, modesties, bashfulnesses…
Choose the right word
Shyness is a tendency to shrink from observation; timidity, a distinct fear of criticism, error, or failure. Reserve may be the retreat of shyness, or, on the other hand, the contemptuous withdrawal of pride and haughtiness.
J. C. Fernald, English Synonyms and Antonyms (1914)
Example sentences
- modesty Does modesty prevent you from seeing my naked blade?
- bashfulness Is my bashfulness a problem for you?
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| shyness | rising | |
| modesty | rising | |
| timidity | steady | |
| diffidence | steady | |
| coyness | rising |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 7 letters
- modesty3, coyness
- 8 letters
- timidity4
- 10 letters
- diffidence, demureness
- 11 letters
- bashfulness3
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (modesty3 = 3 syllables).