Coy: meaning, definitions and examples
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coy
[kɔɪ ]
Definitions
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.
flirting
pretending to be shy or modest in an attempt to be alluring
Synonyms
coquettish, flirtatious, teasing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| coy |
When someone is shy or pretending to be shy in a playful or flirtatious way.
|
| flirtatious |
Used to describe someone who shows interest in others through playful or suggestive behavior.
|
| coquettish |
Describes someone, usually a woman, who behaves in a playful or flirtatious manner to attract attention.
|
| teasing |
When someone makes playful remarks or jokes to provoke or challenge someone else, sometimes with a bit of mischief.
|
Examples of usage
- She played coy, pretending not to notice his advances.
- He enjoyed her coy teasing during their conversation.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Originates from the Middle English word 'coi,' meaning quiet or shy.
- The word was initially used for describing a subtle demeanor, often relating to modesty.
- In the 16th century, the term began to take on a flirtatious undertone, particularly in literature.
Literature
- In classical poetry, coyness often symbolizes an innocent charm, drawing admiration.
- Writers like John Donne and Andrew Marvell featured coy characters in their love poems to depict playful flirtation.
- The word shows up in famous works such as Shakespeare's plays, highlighting nuanced emotions in romantic interactions.
Psychology
- The behavior associated with being coy can be seen as a social strategy to engage interest and allure.
- Research indicates that coyness can signal both attraction and the desire for a deeper emotional connection.
- Coyness is often linked with femininity in cultural narratives, influencing perceptions of gender roles.
Pop Culture
- The term is frequently used in dating advice, where coyness is viewed as a playful approach to attraction.
- Various movie characters embody coyness, creating memorable romantic tension in the storyline.
- Fashion trends have embraced the coy aesthetic, promoting designs that emphasize a playful subtlety.
Social Dynamics
- Coy behavior can create a dynamic interplay in conversations, inviting deeper engagement.
- In group settings, coyness can serve as a tool for social leverage, controlling attention and interest.
- Understanding coyness can enhance social skills, allowing individuals to navigate romantic interests more effectively.
Translations
Translations of the word "coy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tímido
- reservada
- acanhado
🇮🇳 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