bashful
Bashful (adjective) means Shy and easily embarrassed, especially around other people. Example: “The bashful boy hid behind his mother when guests arrived.”
How to use bashful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShy, timid, and easily made to feel awkward or embarrassed.
Word forms
more bashful comparative, most bashful superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ boy hid behind his mother when guests arrived.
Etymology
Formed in the 1500s by clipping abashed and adding -ful, "full of."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “bashful” mean?
The word “bashful” means shy and easily embarrassed, especially around other people. In plain terms, shy, timid, and easily made to feel awkward or embarrassed.
How do you pronounce “bashful”?
“Bashful” is pronounced BASH-fuh ([ˈbæʃfəɫ] in IPA).
How do you use “bashful” in a sentence?
Here is “bashful” used in a sentence: “The bashful boy hid behind his mother when guests arrived.”
What is another word for “bashful”?
Words with a similar meaning to “bashful” include shy, blushful and sheepish.
What part of speech is “bashful”?
“Bashful” is an adjective.
Where does the word “bashful” come from?
The word “bashful” dates back to around 1500. Formed in the 1500s by clipping abashed and adding -ful, "full of.".