aw-shucks

[ aw-shuhks ]

/ ˈɔˈʃʌks /

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adjective Informal.

characterized by a shy, embarrassed, often provincial manner.

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His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of aw-shucks

First recorded in 1930–35

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use aw-shucks in a sentence

But he operates in a mode as old as American letters—aw-shucks credulity mixed with an observant intelligence.
This Week’s Hot Reads: Aug. 26, 2012|Nicholas Mancusi|August 26, 2012|DAILY BEAST
Ryan prefers the aw-shucks understatement of an earnestly furrowed brow.
Double the Pomade: The Aggressively Groomed Style Of Romney And Ryan|Robin Givhan|August 12, 2012|DAILY BEAST
His refreshing angle is based in aw-shucks honesty and an earnest humor.
This Week’s Hot Reads: June 25, 2012|Nicholas Mancusi|June 25, 2012|DAILY BEAST
Perry discusses his upcoming execution with an aw-shucks smile; his hairline is tasseled with greasy bangs.
Werner Herzog’s 'Into the Abyss' Explores the Death Penalty|Ben Crair|November 20, 2011|DAILY BEAST

He is an ‘aw shucks’ guy, but in the meantime, he is ripping your balls out.
George Pataki: Former Governor, Future President?|Samuel P. Jacobs|December 2, 2010|DAILY BEAST
Didn't you neveh know de blacksmiff fill de air full o' bellows whilce de loss calf—aw shucks!
John March, Southerner|George W. Cable

British Dictionary definitions for aw-shucks

aw-shucks

/ (ˌɔːˈʃʌks) /

adjective (prenominal)

seeming to be modest, self-deprecating, or shydon't be fooled by his aw-shucks attitude

Word Origin for aw-shucks

C20: from the US interjection aw shucks, an expression of modesty or diffidence

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012