D defs.my
Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913

Bashfulness

· Bash·ful·ness · IPA /bˈæʃfəlnˌɛs/
01 n. The quality of being bashful.
  1. 1.
    The quality of being bashful.
Syn. Bashfulness, Modesty, Diffidence, Shyness.
Modesty arises from a low estimate of ourselves; bashfulness is an abashment or agitation of the spirits at coming into contact with others; diffidence is produced by an undue degree of self-distrust; shyness usually arises from an excessive self-consciousness, and a painful impression that every one is looking at us. Modesty of deportment is becoming in all; bashfulness often gives rise to mistakes and blundering; diffidence in society frequently makes a man a burden to himself; shyness usually produces a reserve or distance which is often mistaken for haughtiness.