Pronunciation: [ɡˈʌnʃi] (IPA) 
The word "gunshy" can be spelled in two ways: "gunshy" or "gun-shy". The pronunciation is /ˈɡʌnʃaɪ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The root word "gun" refers to a firearm, while "shy" means to be timid or fearful. Together, "gunshy" describes someone who is afraid or hesitant to use firearms due to past experiences or trauma. The hyphenated spelling emphasizes the two separate words and their meanings.
Gunshy is an adjective used to describe an individual or creature that is excessively wary or fearful, especially as a result of a previous negative experience or traumatic event involving firearms or loud noises. The term "gunshy" is often applied to animals, especially hunting dogs, which have been startled or frightened by the sound of gunfire, causing them to become apprehensive or hesitant around firearms or any similar loud sounds. In a broader sense, "gunshy" can also refer to humans who have developed a heightened aversion or fear of guns or loud noises due to personal experiences or exposure to violence.
The concept of being "gunshy" extends beyond the fear of firearms and loud sounds, encompassing an overall sense of hesitancy or caution in various situations. It implies an individual's deep-seated psychological or emotional response to trauma or negative past encounters, leading to a heightened wariness that influences their behavior, decision-making, or overall demeanor.
Figuratively, "gunshy" can be employed to describe a person who exhibits reluctance, hesitancy, or an excessive degree of caution in any context, regardless of its relation to guns or loud noises. It can also be used metaphorically to describe individuals who have become hesitant or resistant to certain actions or activities due to a previous negative experience or disappointment.
The word "gunshy" refers to someone who is hesitant, nervous, or wary, especially as a result of a previous negative experience or trauma. Its etymology can be traced back to the combination of two separate terms: "gun" and "shy".
The word "gun" comes from the Middle English word "gonne", which in turn originates from the Old Norse word "gunnr" meaning "battle" or "war". Over time, "gun" specifically came to refer to a projectile-firing weapon.
The term "shy" has its roots in the Middle English word "schey", which means "easily frightened" or "quick to start". It is believed to have originated from the Old English word "sceoh" meaning "timid" or "easily scared". The word "shy" has been used in English since the late 16th century.
