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

Politicians, especially ones running for office, aren’t big on modesty. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

The structures, made of raw concrete, exuded an ostentatious form of modesty, emblematic of the town’s character. — Afra Wang, New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2026

What is striking is that all these versions agree on her shyness, modesty, and propriety. — Eva Blanco Medina, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2026

Like the rest of their clothing, shoes for the British royal family are about classic silhouettes, modesty and formality. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 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