What is once bitten twice shy?

"Once bitten, twice shy" is a popular proverb or idiom that conveys the idea of being more cautious or hesitant after having a negative or difficult experience. The expression suggests that a person who has encountered a troublesome situation once will be more wary and less likely to repeat the same mistake or fall into a similar predicament.

The origin of the saying is not entirely clear, but it is widely used in English-speaking cultures. The phrase has been employed in various contexts, from everyday conversations to literature and songs, to emphasize the natural tendency of people to avoid repeating past errors once they have suffered the consequences.

In addition to its use as an idiom, "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" is also the title of a song written by English musician Ian Hunter. It was originally released in 1975 on his debut solo album. The song gained further popularity when it was covered by the rock band Great White in 1989, becoming one of their biggest hits.

Overall, the proverb serves as a reminder of the lessons learned from past experiences and the caution that comes as a result of those lessons.