# shrinking violet

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/shrinking-violet
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A very shy or timid person, who avoids contact with others if possible.

## Examples

- She is a shrinking violet who rarely speaks in class.
- My brother is no shrinking violet when he talks about football.
- Although he is a talented musician, he is such a shrinking violet that he refuses to perform on stage.
- You cannot be a shrinking violet if you want to work in sales because you have to start conversations with strangers every day.
- Despite her brilliant insights during private discussions, she remained a shrinking violet in large meetings, preferring to let others take the lead.

## Origin

The term emerged in the early 19th century, likely as a reference to the inconspicuous growth of the violet, or genus Viola. While popular usage assumes a metaphorical origin for human shyness, the phrase was first recorded in a literal sense. The association rests upon the plant's tendency to be overlooked, though the transition from botanical observation to a description of social reticence remains a matter of conjecture rather than documented record. (disputed)

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.