In a shy, embarrassed, or self-conscious manner; with modesty or reserve that shows discomfort or hesitation.
From 'bash' (Scandinavian origin, to strike/hit) + '-ful' (full of) creating 'bashful,' then + '-ly' (manner adverb). The odd path—'bashful' originally meant 'struck/abashed' in Middle English.
Words don't always mean what their parts suggest—'bashful' comes from 'abashed' (struck down by shame), so you're technically being 'bash-ed full'—the word's origins hide a whole other meaning.
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