self-deprecating

adjective

Definition of self-deprecatingnext
as in humble
formal meant to make yourself or the things you do seem unimportant He spoke in a self-deprecating tone. self-deprecating humor

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of self-deprecating The movement’s tongue-in-cheek messaging blends self-deprecating humor with political criticism. — Sheikh Saaliq, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2026 The movement’s messaging blends self-deprecating humor with political criticism. — ABC News, 5 June 2026 Manilow recently chatted candidly and with his trademark self-deprecating humor about the turns his life has taken. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 5 June 2026 Her self-deprecating humor quickly became part of the video's appeal. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-deprecating
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-deprecating
  1. humble
  2. meek
Adjective
  • Family described him as a kind and humble man who worked hard and never hesitated to help others.
    — Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026
  • The humble pen offers a very handy, easy-to-carry form factor for writing, so why not use it for other tasks, too?
    — Ben Coxworth July 14, New Atlas, 14 July 2026
Definition of humble
Adjective
  • Contrasting her with the meek, mysterious, and passive Anthy, the series examines the constrictions both men and women face via traditional gender roles, with an eye towards gender fluidity that remains radical today.
    — Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 12 June 2026
  • The series centers on Cha Myung-jo, a meek worker at a company producing imitation character stickers who, despite nominally heading his household, lives in the shadow of his far more capable wife.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 8 June 2026
Definition of meek

Browse Nearby Words

self-dependent
self-deprecating
self-deprecatingly
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Cite this Entry

“Self-deprecating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-deprecating. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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