coyness

as in coquetry
the attitude or behavior of one who insincerely courts the amorous attentions of others an actress better known for her come-hither coyness than for her acting chops

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for coyness
Noun
  • The three-inch heels that the women wear when performing the dance are visible at the bottom of the skirt—a demure bit of coquetry.
    Fernanda Pérez Sánchez, Vogue, 8 Aug. 2022
  • In other words, the most dizzying and most consequential storyline of Michigan’s offseason — Harbaugh’s coquetry with the Minnesota Vikings notwithstanding — is going to linger a while longer.
    Michael Cohen, Detroit Free Press, 27 July 2022
Noun
  • To apply this to your space, think of form as function—but also with a hint of flirtation.
    Ginger Perra, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Gavras doesn’t give her many new levels to play beyond a few scenes of mild flirtation; the character grows dull in all her unwavering conviction.
    Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 7 Sep. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Coyness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/coyness. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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