Bashful - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Bashful means shy or easily embarrassed, often causing someone to avoid attention or feel awkward in social situations. It describes a timid or reserved demeanor.
Definition:
Shy or timid, often showing reluctance to draw attention to oneself.
Synonyms:
shy, timid, reserved, self-conscious
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
bold, confident, outgoing
Common Collocations:
bashful smile, bashful child, bashful demeanor
Derivatives:
bashfully, bashfulness
Usage Tips:
Use "bashful" to describe someone who is shy or hesitant in social situations.
Common Phrases:
bashful as a schoolboy, too bashful to speak, overcome one's bashfulness
Etymology:
Originates from Middle English "bash," meaning abashed or ashamed, combined with "-ful."
Examples:
- 1. The little girl gave a bashful smile when complimented.
- 2. He felt too bashful to join the conversation at the party.
- 3. Her bashful nature made public speaking difficult for her.
- 4. The actor played a bashful character in the romantic comedy.