1
general::
Phrase(s): bring one out of one’s shell [and] get one out of one’s shell; bring one out; get one out
Fig. to make a person become more open and friendly. (Alludes to a shy turtle being coaxed to put its head out of its shell.) • We tried to bring Greg out of his shell, but he is very shy. • He’s quiet, and it’s hard to get him out of his shell.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs