1
: not very large in size or amount
Despite its modest [=somewhat small] size, the city has many things to offer tourists.
They own a modest home near the beach.
She enjoyed modest success with her singing career.
He earns a modest income.
We live on a modest budget.
New cars are now available at relatively modest prices.
He has only a modest amount of knowledge on the subject.
It is a book of only modest importance.
2
approving
: not too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities : not showing or feeling great or excessive pride
She's very modest about her achievements.
Don't be so modest. Your performance was wonderful!
"I'm not a hero. I was just doing my job," he said in his characteristically modest way.
He is unusually modest for a man who is so famous and successful.
3
a
of clothing
: not showing too much of a person's body
She preferred wearing more modest swimsuits.
In some countries, women must wear very modest clothing in public.
b
: shy about showing your body especially in a sexual way : preferring to wear modest clothing
a modest young woman
Cite this Entry
“Modest.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/modest. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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