Be frightened/nervous/scared of your own shadow Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Overstated Fear The phrase exaggerates someone's fear to show they are scared of even silly things. You jump at every noise; you're scared of your own shadow! Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal It is a metaphorical expression, not meaning fear of an actual shadow. Even though it was just a movie, she's now so nervous of her own shadow. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional State It implies a temporary or situational state of fear, not a permanent trait. After hearing that story, he's currently frightened of his own shadow.