modesty

noun

mod·​es·​ty ˈmä-də-stē 

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.

Synonyms

• demureness
• down-to-earthness
• humbleness
• humility
• lowliness
• meekness

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

There was no conceit to him and no false modesty, either. —Paul Duncan, Vulture, 24 May 2024

On the first page, Rostow pleaded for the modesty of his own theory while also announcing it as a new, universal take on social and economic development. —Charles King, Foreign Affairs, 24 Oct. 2023

Notably, precision, integrity, and relative modesty will all be a part of her attire. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 3 May 2024

The relative modesty of this one was — distinctive. —Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 23 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1531, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

modesty

noun

mod·​es·​ty ˈmäd-ə-stē 

: the quality of being modest