self-deprecating

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 Playing an acoustic guitar, Martin delivered a surprise number that was both self-deprecating and deferential to two great Australians, the late cricketing great Shane Warne and Farnham. — Lars Brandle, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026 Some of Sami’s videos also were humorous and self-deprecating. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 2 Sep. 2026 As a priest, Lamb held a calm, patient and somewhat self-deprecating sense of perspective. — Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Dolly Parton brought her last concert tour, Pure & Simple, to Kansas City a decade ago, a night made memorable by the country icon’s trademark self-deprecating jokes as much as her music. — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-deprecating
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-deprecating
Adjective
  • Different generations will get misty-eyed over various models Schwinn produced, from the humble safety bike to the Sting-Ray, which took its design cues from American muscle cars, to sleek race bikes such as the Paramount.
    — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 19 Oct. 2026
  • Obeying Christ, the soon-to-be disciples got a hands-on lesson in the power of deeper, more humble prayers rather than surface-level efforts.
    — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Others seemed meek, with downcast eyes that refused to meet the camera.
    — Anja Aronowsky Cronberg, New Yorker, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Moore plays Mona, a meek, thoroughly unseen wife and mother who impulsively decides to audition for a community theater musical despite having no experience.
    — Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 12 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Self-deprecating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-deprecating. Accessed 26 Oct. 2026.

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