Coy

Pronunciation: /kɔɪ/

Definitions of coy

adjective having a shy or modest reserve; showing reluctance to make a definite commitment or to reveal one's thoughts or feelings

Example Sentences

A1 She gave a coy smile when he complimented her outfit.

A2 The coy student blushed when the teacher called on him to answer the question.

B1 The actress played a coy character in the movie, always hinting at her true feelings.

B2 Despite her coy demeanor, she was actually quite confident in social situations.

C1 Her coy behavior was often misinterpreted as aloofness by those who didn't know her well.

C2 The politician's coy responses to questions left the journalists frustrated and eager for more information.

Examples of coy in a Sentence

formal The politician was being coy about his plans for the upcoming election.

informal She was being coy when asked about her crush.

slang Stop being so coy and just tell me the truth!

figurative The sun played coy behind the clouds, teasing us with its warmth.

Grammatical Forms of coy

• past tense: coyed
• plural: coys
• comparative: coyer
• superlative: coyest
• present tense: coys
• future tense: will coy
• perfect tense: have coyed
• continuous tense: is coying
• singular: coy
• positive degree: coy
• infinitive: to coy
• gerund: coying
• participle: coyed

Origin and Evolution of coy

First Known Use: 1400 year

Language of Origin: Old French

Story behind the word: The word 'coy' originated from the Old French word 'coi' meaning quiet or still.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'coy' evolved to mean shy or modest, often used to describe someone who is pretending to be unaware of their attractiveness or skill.