Shyness, n.
The quality or state of being shy. [Written also shiness.] Frequency in heavenly contemplation is particularly important to prevent a shyness bewtween God and thy soul. Baxter.
Syn. -- Bashfulness; reserve; coyness; timidity; diffidence. See Bashfulness.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for shyness; he lists it under modesty.
Where he writes about it:
Shyness is a tendency to shrink from observation; timidity, a distinct fear of criticism, error, or failure. — from modesty
Reserve may be the retreat of shyness, or, on the other hand, the contemptuous withdrawal of pride and haughtiness. — from modesty