gunshy /ˈɡʌn.ʃaɪ/ adjective3 •Afraid to use a gun. •(figurative) Fearing the consequences of repeating an act, especially after being reprimanded.After his last suggestion was laughed at by his colleagues, he was gunshy about making another suggestion. •Frightened by the sound of gunfire. formsmore gunshy · most gunshy