Shies is a verb that means to draw back or flinch, usually in reaction to fear or uncertainty. There are several synonyms for this word, such as recoil, cower, shrink, hesitate and falter. Recoil implies a sudden, instinctive backward movement caused by fear or surprise. Cower means to shrink or cringe in fear or apprehension. Shrink suggests a slight or gradual withdrawal, while hesitate means to pause or delay in taking action due to uncertainty or doubt. Falter implies a wavering or stuttering movement, often caused by fear or lack of confidence. Regardless of which word you choose, they all describe an action caused by fear or uncertainty that causes one to draw back.