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 of modesty

• meekness
• humility
• humbleness
• demureness

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

In lieu of a top, Suki Waterhouse wore two peacock feathers, designed by Tamara Ralph, rendered in gold crystal — the glittering tendrils just about protecting her modesty. —Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 16 Mar. 2026

Iran’s legal system is based on one interpretation of what Islam teaches about gender roles and modesty for women, and is used to control women, said Iqbal Akhtar, professor of politics and international relations and religious studies at Florida International University. —Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2026

Mike Kelly, a former Vikings executive turned technology CEO who remains a season ticket holder, long felt this modesty was what separated Brzezinski from other front-office types. —Alec Lewis, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026

Part of her appeal is that, even though her voice is commanding, there’s nothing particularly imperious about her personality, which borders on something like modesty. —Chris Willman, Variety, 5 Mar. 2026

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