Vivid Words for Shy:
General:
* Timid: A gentle, hesitant approach to situations.
* Diffident: Lacking confidence, unsure of oneself.
* Reserved: Holding back from revealing emotions or opinions.
* Unassuming: Not wanting to draw attention to oneself.
* Reticent: Inclined to be silent and uncommunicative.
* Bashful: Easily embarrassed or shy.
* Demure: Modest and reserved in manner.
* Wallflower: A person who is shy and inconspicuous.
More Evocative:
* Shrinking violet: Someone who is easily intimidated or overwhelmed.
* Butterflies in the stomach: A feeling of nervousness or anxiety.
* Tongue-tied: Unable to speak due to nervousness or shyness.
* Blushing: Flushed with embarrassment or shame.
* Heart-fluttering: A feeling of excitement and nervousness, often associated with shyness.
* Self-conscious: Anxious about how one appears or behaves.
* Inhibited: Restrained or held back by shyness or social anxiety.
* Introverted: Preferring solitude and quiet activities.
Figurative:
* Hide in the shadows: Retreat from social interaction.
* Afraid to look someone in the eye: A sign of extreme shyness or insecurity.
* Frozen in place: Unable to act due to nervousness.
* Voice lost in the crowd: Difficulty speaking up or being heard.
Specific to situations:
* Stage fright: Nervousness and fear before performing in front of an audience.
* Social anxiety: Feeling uncomfortable or awkward in social situations.
* Stranger anxiety: A fear or discomfort around unfamiliar people.
The best words to use will depend on the specific context and the desired effect.