shrinking violets

plural of shrinking violet
as in mice
a shy or reserved person a reality show that wants shameless exhibitionists, not shrinking violets

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of shrinking violets This is not a collection for the shrinking violets among us. — Joseph Erbentraut, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026 Why Winter Damage Can Be Problematic for Camellias Camellias are no shrinking violets. — Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2026 This spring there are no shrinking violets, only beguiling wallflowers. — Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026 Nobody would have called it that back in the 1960s, of course, but the man who shares a name with a Roman emperor (those guys weren't shrinking violets either) tends to be the biggest presence on any starship bridge. — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 14 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shrinking violets
Noun
  • And now a new study in mice suggests that starting semaglutide, a GLP-1 (glucagonlike peptide 1) medication sold under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, in old age extends the lifespan by about 12 percent.
    — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 2 Sep. 2026
  • One of the most obvious signs of cognitive decline in mice is their ability to build a nest.
    — Mike McRae August 30, New Atlas, 31 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • But some of the best public speakers are introverts.
    — William Arruda, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026
  • The real cherry on the proverbial cake, however, is the private in-villa dining experience that’s offered for an extra charge, and appears designed for honeymooners, parents who need to keep an eye on their kids, and introverts alike.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • Since pattern sandwiching isn’t exactly for decorating wallflowers, color (and lots of it) is welcomed.
    — Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Her favorite things to shop from the brand are its hand soaps, candles, hand sanitizers, wallflowers fragrance refills, and shower steamers.
    — Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 5 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Shrinking violets.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shrinking%20violets. Accessed 6 Oct. 2026.

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