Dictionary > Modest

Modest

modest
1. Restraining within due limits of propriety; not forward, bold, boastful, or presumptious; rather retiring than pushing one’s self forward; not obstructive; as, a modest youth; a modest man.
2. Observing the proprieties of the sex; not unwomanly in act or bearing; free from undue familiarity, indecency, or lewdness; decent in speech and demeanor; said of a woman. Mrs. Ford, the honest woman, the modest wife. (Shak) The blushing beauties of a modest maid. (Dryden)
3. Evincing modestly in the actor, author, or speaker; not showing presumption; not excessive or extreme; moderate; as, a modest request; modest joy.
Synonym: Reserved, unobtrusive, diffident, bashful, coy, shy, decent, becoming, chaste, virtuous.
Origin: F. Modeste, L. Modestus, fr. Modus measure. See Mode.

Last updated on June 24th, 2021

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