shrinking violet

noun

1. a shy, modest, or self-effacing person.

shrinking violet

noun

1. informal.
   a shy person

Word History and Origins

Origin of shrinking violet¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

They are hardy — any flower that grows next to a freeway ain’t no shrinking violet.

From Los Angeles Times

Dubois: From 'shrinking violet' to potential Joshua 'slayer'

From BBC

Dubois: From 'shrinking violet' to potential Joshua 'slayer'

From BBC

"I always thought he'd be a future champion, but I've really seen him change from that shrinking violet who first stepped into my office," Warren reflects.

From BBC

Penelope is a shrinking violet, but she’s also a romantic tired of being underestimated and cast as unmarriageable.

From Salon