Dec 1, 2011 · shy, bashful, diffident, modest, coy mean not inclined to be forward. shy implies a timid reserve and a shrinking from familiarity or contact with others.

COY definition: 1. intentionally keeping something secret: 2. (especially of women) being or pretending to be shy…. Learn more.

COY definition: artfully or affectedly shy or reserved; slyly hesitant; coquettish. See examples of coy used in a sentence.

If someone is being coy, they are unwilling to talk about something that they feel guilty or embarrassed about. The hotel are understandably coy about the incident.

Definition of coy adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

3 days ago · From Middle English coy, from Old French coi, earlier quei (“quiet, still”), from Latin qu (i)ētus (“resting, at rest”). Doublet of quit, quiet, quite and quietus.

There are 16 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word coy, eight of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

showing reluctance, esp. when insincere or affected, to reveal one's plans or opinions, make a commitment, or take a stand: The mayor was coy about his future political aspirations.

Coy definition: Unwilling to make a commitment or divulge information.

The adjective 'coy' has an intriguing etymology that reflects its meaning of displaying a modest or shy demeanor with a hint of allure. It originated in Middle English as 'coy,' which meant 'quiet' …