Pronunciation: [ʃˈa͡ɪ fɹɒm] (IPA) 
When we say "shy from," the "shy" is pronounced as /ʃaɪ/, with the "sh" sound and a long "i" sound. The word "from" is pronounced as /frʌm/, with the "f" sound and a short "u" sound. As for the spelling, "shy" comes from the Middle English "schīen," which means "to dodge or avoid," while "from" comes from the Old English "fram," which means "forward" or "along." Together, "shy from" means to avoid or steer clear of something.
"Shy from" is an idiomatic expression that refers to an individual's tendency to refrain from engaging in or avoiding a particular action, behavior, or situation due to feelings of timidity, hesitancy, or fear. It implies a reluctance or unwillingness to confront or face the object or subject matter in question.
In various contexts, "shy from" can denote the avoidance of personal interaction, such as avoiding eye contact, staying quiet or reserved, or withdrawing from social situations due to introversion, lack of confidence, or feeling uncomfortable in the presence of others. It can also encompass avoiding discussions or debates, evading responsibilities or difficult tasks, or sidestepping controversial or sensitive topics to maintain peace or avoid potential conflicts.
The phrase "shy from" can also indicate a sense of reluctance or hesitation in trying new experiences, taking risks, or embarking on unfamiliar endeavors due to self-doubt, apprehension, or concerns about potential failure or embarrassment. It conveys a defensive or guarded approach to handling certain situations, often arising from a fear of judgment, rejection, or criticism.
Overall, the phrase "shy from" suggests a tendency to steer clear of or feel uncomfortable with engaging in specific actions, behaviors, or situations due to an underlying sense of timidity, anxiety, or avoidance.
The phrase "shy from" does not have its own separate etymology. It is a combination of two separate words: "shy" and "from".
The word "shy" comes from Middle English "schye" and Old English "scēoh" meaning "timid or easily frightened". It is related to the German word "scheu" which also means "shy".
The word "from" comes from Middle English "from" and Old English "fram" which means "away" or "out of".
When combined, the phrase "shy from" means to avoid or be hesitant about something, often due to a feeling of fear, timidity, or uncertainty.
