shrinking violet

noun

: a bashful or retiring person

Examples of shrinking violet in a Sentence

He's no shrinking violet when it comes to competition. a reality show that wants shameless exhibitionists, not shrinking violets
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This is not a time for shrinking violets or incrementalism. Michael Zais, Orlando Sentinel, 24 Nov. 2024 After all, a little one with a name like Valkyrie, Raven, or Justice isn’t likely to be a shrinking violet. Christin Perry, Parents, 25 Oct. 2024 Susann Sills was no shrinking violet, says her friend Chris Solimine. Gayane Keshishyan Mendez, CBS News, 17 May 2024 The Squad members have prided themselves on not being shrinking violets. Jeff Robbins, Orange County Register, 8 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for shrinking violet 

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shrinking violet was in 1915

Dictionary Entries Near shrinking violet

Cite this Entry

“Shrinking violet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shrinking%20violet. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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