Pronunciation: [ʃˈa͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "shies" (IPA: /ʃaɪz/) is the third person singular present tense of the verb "shy". In phonetic terms, the "sh" sound is represented in IPA by the symbol /ʃ/, while the "y" sound is represented by /aɪ/. The addition of the letter "s" at the end of the word indicates that the subject of the sentence is singular and third person. Therefore, "he shies away from public speaking" is an example of the use of the word "shies".
Shies is the third-person singular form of the verb "shy," which refers to the act of flinching or recoiling in fear, suspicion, or potential avoidance of something. It can also represent being hesitant, unwilling, or cautious about engaging with or confronting a particular situation or entity.
When used to describe an individual's behavior, shies suggests a momentary retreat or hesitancy as a result of fear, apprehension, or uncertainty. This reaction may manifest as physically stepping back, avoiding direct eye contact, or displaying signs of nervousness or discomfort.
Additionally, "shies" can refer to the behavior of certain animals, particularly horses, when they shy away or startle at something perceived as threatening or unfamiliar. In this context, it implies a sudden involuntary reaction accompanied by a sideward or backward movement to escape the perceived danger.
The term can also be used in a metaphorical sense, indicating a person's reluctance or unwillingness to engage in or commit to a specific activity or idea. It suggests a hesitance towards taking risks, expressing reservations, or displaying a cautious attitude.
Overall, "shies" captures the action of pulling back or avoiding something out of fear, uncertainty, or hesitance, and can be applied to both animate and inanimate entities alike.
Third pers. sing. pres. of the v. shy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "shies" is the plural form of "shy", which can have multiple meanings depending on the context. The etymology of "shy" can be traced back to Old English, where it was spelled as "sceoh" or "scēoh". It derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skeuhaz", which meant "to frighten" or "to scare away". Over time, "sceoh" evolved into Middle English "schowe" or "shoue", before eventually becoming "shy" in Modern English. However, it's important to note that "shy" in the context of horses or throwing objects has a slightly different origin. In this sense, it comes from the Old Norse word "skeggja", meaning "to throw or launch".
