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
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
Vocally, too, Jackman makes a kind of spectacle of his modesty.
—
Helen Shaw, The New Yorker, 31 Jan. 2025
Kwong’s ministrations to the interior included refurbishing portions of the existing millwork, adding a window seat in the kitchen, and renovating the kitchen and baths in a way that feels sympathetic to the modesty of the original plans.
—Mayer Rus, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2025
The line offers women a taste of feminine modesty and sensuality.
—Ugonnaora Owoh, Essence, 23 Dec. 2024
Author John Neihardt described Crazy Horse in his book Black Elk Speaks as a person of great modesty and reserve but who was generous to the poor, elderly, and children.
—Chip Bell, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for modesty 
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Helen Shaw, The New Yorker, 31 Jan. 2025
Kwong’s ministrations to the interior included refurbishing portions of the existing millwork, adding a window seat in the kitchen, and renovating the kitchen and baths in a way that feels sympathetic to the modesty of the original plans.
—Mayer Rus, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2025
The line offers women a taste of feminine modesty and sensuality.
—Ugonnaora Owoh, Essence, 23 Dec. 2024
Author John Neihardt described Crazy Horse in his book Black Elk Speaks as a person of great modesty and reserve but who was generous to the poor, elderly, and children.
—Chip Bell, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for modesty
Dictionary Entries Near modesty
Cite this Entry
“Modesty.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modesty. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
modesty
noun
mod·es·ty
ˈmäd-ə-stē
: the quality of being modest
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