shynessn.

1651 W. Davenant Gondibert iii. ii. 78 But when he mark'd that he did from them move With sodain shyness, he suppos'd it shame.

1662 H. More Gen. Coll. Philos. Writings (1712) Pref. p. iii Men have a shyness and jealousy against such Truths as they have not been acquainted with.

1680 W. Temple Ess. Advancem. Trade Ireland in Miscellanea 132 This both checks the growth of the common breeds, and gives them an incurable shyness, which is the general vice of Irish Horses.

1710 R. Steele Tatler No. 201. ⁋1 The Woman..is treated with Shiness and Indifference.

1748 B. Robins & R. Walter Voy. round World by Anson i. vi. 68 Vicunnas.., by reason of their shyness and swiftness, are killed with difficulty.

1818 J. Oxley Jrnls. Two Exped. New S. Wales (1820) 328 By making them small presents of hooks, lines, &c., this shiness has soon worn off.

1828 M. M. Sherwood Lady of Manor VI. xxvii. 54 A word, a look, the neglect of a salutation..have often produced a shyness among the dearest friends.

1853 E. K. Kane U.S. Grinnell Exped. (1856) xxvi. 214 The shyness of the seal is proverbial.

1909 Spectator 30 Oct. 677/1 There are certain shynesses which we regard as becoming.