1
as in coquettish
affecting shyness or modesty in order to attract masculine interest
not wanting him to know that she was interested in him, she acted very coy at the dance
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in shy
not comfortable around people
a coy toddler who hides whenever anyone comes to the house
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of coy
Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 13 Apr. 2025
After all, texting has become a cornerstone of modern romance, from coy flirtations to soul-baring confessions.
—David Fang, The Conversation, 9 Apr. 2025
The 28-year-old driver wasn’t coy about his recent successes post race.
—Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 Apr. 2025
There is a lavish devotion to a world where Mimi’s success in a TV talent competition turns her into a midriff-baring singing sensation akin to coy Britney, but also French singers like Lorie and Ophélie Winter.
—Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 25 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for coy
Adjective
During an interview with People magazine at the time, Hamrick confirmed the ring was a gift from Jagger but remained coy about its potential meaning.
—Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 13 Apr. 2025
After all, texting has become a cornerstone of modern romance, from coy flirtations to soul-baring confessions.
—David Fang, The Conversation, 9 Apr. 2025
The 28-year-old driver wasn’t coy about his recent successes post race.
—Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 Apr. 2025
There is a lavish devotion to a world where Mimi’s success in a TV talent competition turns her into a midriff-baring singing sensation akin to coy Britney, but also French singers like Lorie and Ophélie Winter.
—Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 25 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for coy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for coy
Adjective
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Kardashian hasn't been shy about linking her career in law to Elle Woods since her journey began.—
Angel Saunders,
People.com,
23 May 2025
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Read More: Why Trump and South Africa Are at Odds American officials were not shy about their racial biases.—
Time,
Time,
22 May 2025
Noun
-
The quick coquetry, captured by webcams pointed at the nest, made for lighthearted jokes and speculative gossip on social media, as fans of the birds reveled in the mystery of the latest developments and poked fun at Annie’s apparent promiscuity, comparing the turn of events to a TV drama.—
Andres Picon,
San Francisco Chronicle,
1 Apr. 2022
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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
Adjective
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Madelyn Cline went full-on Old Hollywood bombshell, kittenish liner, polished lengths, and all.—
Calin Van Paris,
Vogue,
15 Jan. 2023
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With a basis of flawless skin—smoothing and hydration offered via Kylie Skin Face Moisturizer and Eye Cream—Phillips pulled a thick wing of black liner along Jenner's lids, a diminutive wing beneath the lower lashline providing a kittenish complement.—
Calin Van Paris,
Vogue,
13 Sep. 2021
Adjective
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My main criticism is its withdrawn camera, which is set too far away from the action in most stages.—
PC Magazine,
PC Magazine,
30 Apr. 2025
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Parents watch as their once-curious children become withdrawn, dreading school instead of embracing it.—
Claudia Nachtigal,
Baltimore Sun,
10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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Conversations are flirtatious and direct, so expect bold texts and spontaneous meetings.—
Valerie Mesa,
People.com,
22 May 2025
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This is a marvelous role for Skarsgard, who gets to play up Gustav’s self-importance and lack of accountability along with his flirtatious charm as the movie progresses.—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
21 May 2025
Adjective
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Cher was bashful to be busted but then couldn’t help laughing out loud at the audacity.—
Brie Stimson,
FOXNews.com,
3 Apr. 2025
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Or maybe the movie’s stars are just feeling a bit bashful!—
Jason P. Frank,
Vulture,
11 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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Her sartorial strategy was clear: midi-skirts and dresses that were elegant, prim and demure, worn with headbands for a youthful earnestness.—
Leah Dolan,
CNN Money,
22 May 2025
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Finally, women need to call this type of vulgarity out instead of being demure!—
Chloe Mayer,
MSNBC Newsweek,
20 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Coy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/coy. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.
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