noun, na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
somewhat reserved; a bit shy; tending to hold back
Describes a person's attitude or behavior as being slightly hesitant or restrained, often out of politeness or diffidence. The 気味 suffix adds a nuance of 'a touch of' or 'tending toward'.
彼は初対面の人にはいつも遠慮気味だ。
He is always somewhat reserved with people he meets for the first time.
遠慮気味に「大丈夫です」と言った。
She said 'I'm fine' in a slightly hesitant manner.
Compound of 遠慮 (reserve, restraint) and 気味 (suffix meaning 'a touch of' or 'tending toward').