Meaning & Definition of word "Bashful"
to
Bashful
/ˈbæʃ.fəl/
adjective:
- 1. Reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy.
- Example: She felt bashful about speaking in front of the large crowd.
- 2. Easily embarrassed or self-conscious.
- Example: His bashful demeanor made it hard for him to make new friends.
- 3. Showing or marked by hesitance in social situations.
- Example: The bashful child hid behind her mother's leg when introduced to new people.
- 4. Characterized by a lack of confidence in social interactions.
- Example: Despite her talents, her bashful nature held her back from auditioning.
Etymology
Middle English 'bashful', from 'bashen' (to bash) + '-ful'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
bashful about something:
Feeling shy or reluctant regarding a specific situation.
bashful smile:
A shy or timid smile suggesting discomfort or modesty.
Related Words
shyness:
The quality of being reserved or having difficulty in social situations.
timidity:
Lack of courage or confidence; being shy.
modesty:
The quality of not being too proud or confident about oneself.
Slang Meanings of bashful
Meaning: Being shy around someone you like.
Example Sentence: He's acting all bashful because he has a crush on her.
Meaning: Feeling nervous or awkward in a social setting.
Example Sentence: I get bashful when I'm introduced to new people.