Meaning & Definition of word "Coy"

Coy

/kɔɪ/

1. Feeling shy or modest in a playful or affected way.
- Example: She gave a coy smile when asked about her crush.
2. Affectedly shy, modest, or reserved; pretending to be shy or modest.
- Example: He was being coy about his plans for the weekend, not wanting to reveal too much.
3. Restraining oneself from giving an answer or fully engaging, often to create intrigue.
- Example: The author was coy regarding the plot twists in her upcoming novel.

Middle English 'coi', meaning quiet or reserved, from Old French 'cue', meaning quiet.

coy smile:

A playful or flirtatious smile that suggests shyness or modesty.

coy behavior:

Actions that are intended to be charmingly reserved or flirtatious.

shy:

Easily frightened or embarrassed; lacking self-confidence.

flirtatious:

Behaving in a playful or teasing way that suggests romantic interest.

Meaning: Playing hard to get in a romantic scenario.

Example Sentence: Don't be so coy, just tell him you like him.

Meaning: Feigning ignorance or innocence to elicit attention.

Example Sentence: She was being all coy about her new relationship status.