Definition of self-conscious adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary



    BrE BrE//ˌself ˈkɒnʃəs//
    ; NAmE NAmE//ˌself ˈkɑːnʃəs//
    Embarrassment, Nervous
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  1. 1self-conscious (about something) nervous or embarrassed about your appearance or what other people think of you He's always been self-conscious about being so short. She was a shy, self-conscious girl. See related entries: Embarrassment, Nervous
  2. 2(often disapproving) done in a way that shows you are aware of the effect that is being produced The humour of the play is self-conscious and contrived.
  3. opposite unselfconscious
    Extra examples He studied her in a way that made her very self-conscious. He’s always been self-conscious about being so short. Taken aback by her frankness, he gave a little self-conscious laugh.
See the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary entry: self-conscious