makahiya
makahiyâ with stress marks
bashful mimosa plant
Also means
Makahiya also describes a shy or bashful person who shrinks from attention, mirroring the plant's behaviour.
Usage Note
Makahiya (Mimosa pudica) is the sensitive plant or bashful mimosa, famous for folding its leaves when touched. Its Filipino name means 'one who is shy' — a playful description of the plant's defensive response. Children are fascinated by the plant's movement, and it is commonly found along roadsides and in schoolyard gardens. The word is also used metaphorically to describe a timid person.
Examples
" May makahiya sa daan. "
Natural Translation
There is a makahiya plant on the path.
Literal Translation
Has bashful-mimosa on-the path.
" May makahiya sa bakuran. "
Natural Translation
There is a bashful mimosa plant in the yard.
Literal Translation
Has bashful mimosa plant in yard.
" Hinawakan ng bata ang mga dahon ng makahiya at natuwa siya nang biglang nagsara ang mga ito. "
Natural Translation
The child touched the leaves of the makahiya and was delighted when they suddenly closed.
Literal Translation
Touched of-the child the [mga] leaf of-the bashful-mimosa and delighted he when suddenly closed the [mga] these.
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