Coy: meaning, definitions and examples

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coy

 

[ kɔɪ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

animal behavior

shy or reserved; showing reluctance to make a definite commitment

Synonyms

bashful, reserved, reticent, shy

Examples of usage

  • The coy cat hid behind the bushes before approaching the food.
  • She gave him a coy smile before turning away.
Context #2 | Adjective

flirting

pretending to be shy or modest in an attempt to be alluring

Synonyms

coquettish, flirtatious, teasing

Examples of usage

  • She played coy, pretending not to notice his advances.
  • He enjoyed her coy teasing during their conversation.

Translations

Translations of the word "coy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tímido

🇮🇳 संकोची

🇩🇪 schüchtern

🇮🇩 pemalu

🇺🇦 сором'язливий

🇵🇱 nieśmiały

🇯🇵 内気な (うちきな)

🇫🇷 timide

🇪🇸 tímido

🇹🇷 utangaç

🇰🇷 수줍어하는

🇸🇦 خجول

🇨🇿 plachý

🇸🇰 plachý

🇨🇳 害羞的 (hàixiū de)

🇸🇮 sramežljiv

🇮🇸 feiminn

🇰🇿 ұялшақ

🇬🇪 მორცხვი

🇦🇿 utancaq

🇲🇽 tímido

Etymology

The word 'coy' originated in the 14th century from the Old French word 'coi', meaning quiet or still. Over time, it evolved to describe someone who is shy or pretending to be shy in a flirtatious manner. The term has been widely used in literature and poetry to depict subtle and alluring behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,304, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.