To go, retreat, etc. into your shell

usgb
phrase

To become more introverted or withdrawn, often as a result of feeling uncomfortable or anxious.

After getting embarrassed in front of her peers, she went into her shell and avoided social gatherings.
Visual representation of "to go, retreat, etc. into your shell" - To become more introverted or withdrawn, often as a result of feeling uncomfortable or anxious

Often appears as...

  • go into his shell
  • retreat into her shell

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "to go, retreat, etc. into your shell"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Trigger

The phrase is used when someone is upset or embarrassed and becomes very quiet and less communicative.

Illustration for Emotional Trigger
He's been quiet all day; I think the criticism made him retreat into his shell.
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Temporary State

It implies a temporary state, suggesting the person may come out of their shell eventually.

Illustration for Temporary State
She's gone into her shell right now, but she'll be her usual self with some time.
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Not Literal

This phrase is figurative and does not refer to physically hiding within a shell like a turtle might do.

Illustration for Not Literal
Don't worry, he hasn't literally disappeared, he's just gone into his shell for a bit.
Visual representation of the word "To go, retreat, etc. into your shell"

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