coy

the word 'coy' entered english in the late 14th century from the old french 'coi', which carried meanings of quiet, still, or gentle. this old french term evolved from the latin 'quietus', the past participle of 'quiescere', meaning to rest or be quiet, which is also the root of the english word 'quiet'. the original english sense was simply "quiet, modest, retiring." over time, the meaning shifted to describe an affected, often playful, modesty or shyness, particularly in a romantic context, suggesting a reluctance that is not entirely sincere. a later, more figurative extension led to the sense of being evasive or unwilling to disclose information.

this word is a simplex form. it is a loanword from middle french 'coi', meaning quiet or still, which itself derived from latin 'quietus' (quiet, at rest).