coy
adjective
artfully or affectedly shy or reserved; slyly hesitant; coquettish.
coyness
-
a word derived from
coy.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Zappe’s coyness aside, things seemed to be trending in that direction as New England began preparing to host Detroit.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 5, 2022
But the map itself isn’t coyness or frustration for its own sake.
From The Verge ● Apr. 4, 2022
Muriel’s purported evasions provide Parker with a juicy platform for splendidly exuberant coyness, and Jesse’s clumsy attempts at amorous suavity allow Broderick to demonstrate the comedic subtlety for which he’s not always sufficiently recognized.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 29, 2022
In the ensuing outcry, Dmitri S. Peskov, Mr. Putin’s spokesman, echoed his boss’s coyness by noting that the president himself had not singled out any target by name.
From New York Times ● Feb. 26, 2019
She so startled me by her question that I forgot my usual coyness.
From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam
