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COY
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I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Modestly or warily rejecting approaches or overtures
Example:
like a wild young colt, very inquisitive but very coy and not to be easily cajoled
Classified under:
Similar:
timid (showing fear and lack of confidence)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Showing marked and often playful or irritating evasiveness or reluctance to make a definite or committing statement
Example:
a politician coy about his intentions
Classified under:
Similar:
indefinite (vague or not clearly defined or stated)
Derivation:
coyness (the affectation of being demure in a provocative way)
Sense 3
Meaning:
Affectedly modest or shy especially in a playful or provocative way
Synonyms:
coy; demure; overmodest
Classified under:
Adjectives
Similar:
modest (not offensive to sexual mores in conduct or appearance)
Derivation:
coyness (the affectation of being demure in a provocative way)
