modesty

noun

mod·​es·​ty ˈmä-də-stē How to pronounce modesty (audio)
1
: the quality of not being too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities
She accepted the award with modesty.
2
: propriety in dress, speech, or conduct
The young man was known for his modesty.

Examples of modesty in a Sentence

She accepted the award with modesty. He is known for his modesty, an uncommon characteristic for a politician. There was no false modesty in her victory speech. the modesty of her clothing
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some suggest his forthright manner and pride are somehow anathema to the country’s stereotypical characteristics of modesty and humility. James McNicholas, The Athletic, 5 July 2024 Toronto Jump to: Recommendations Itinerary Google Map April 11, 2024 Locals may insist (politely, of course) that Toronto doesn’t belong atop any traveler’s wish list, but don’t fall for that Canadian modesty. Ingrid K. Williams, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2024 Its materials confer a certain modesty that is befitting of its religious function and, in a sense, typical of the architect. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 18 July 2024 The Big Year captures Martin in kinder-gentler mode, but the film’s overall modesty keeps him from really registering. Will Leitch, Vulture, 29 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for modesty 

Word History

First Known Use

1531, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of modesty was in 1531

Dictionary Entries Near modesty

Cite this Entry

“Modesty.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modesty. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

modesty

noun
mod·​es·​ty ˈmäd-ə-stē How to pronounce modesty (audio)
: the quality of being modest

More from Merriam-Webster on modesty

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