Implies vulnerability or a lack of confidence, sometimes used compassionately. Even amidst boisterous debates, he remained a shrinking violet.
Pro Tip 2/3
Informal Context
Used in casual conversation, less appropriate in formal writing or speeches. At parties, he's a bit of a shrinking violet.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Negative
Being a shrinking violet isn't always bad; it can mean being thoughtful and reserved. He's considered the office shrinking violet, calmly observing before he acts.