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-effacing Although self-effacing and unfashionable, Hackman held special status within Hollywood — heir to Spencer Tracy as an everyman, actor’s actor, curmudgeon and reluctant celebrity. Hillel Italie, Chicago Tribune, 27 Feb. 2025 Friends and former colleagues say that General Caine, an intensely focused but low-key, self-effacing officer, has been uncomfortable with Mr. Trump’s characterization of his role in defeating the Islamic State. Eric Schmitt, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2025 Bearing a flawlessly polite and self-effacing demeanor, Mr. Blinken spent countless hours trying to resolve and prevent conflict. Edward Wong, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025 But behind the self-effacing demeanor, allies of Ms. Wiles said, is a woman who can wield a scalpel. Elisabeth Bumiller, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-effacing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-effacing
Adjective
  • Often, people that indulge in this type of culture are considered anti-social or withdrawn, a stereotype that has been passed around for years.
    Dominick Williams, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2025
  • People become irritable, withdrawn, or hyper-independent.
    Barnaby Lashbrooke, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • However, Wicked arrived on Peacock on March 21, just shy of four months after the film opened in theaters.
    Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • And Prim Rose is a 1-year-old girl who is energetic yet a little shy and has been waiting for a forever family since January.
    Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • But that hasn't stopped Chisholm, who is not bashful about adding chains and non-uniform colors to his look, from getting criticism.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 26 Mar. 2025
  • One time in particular, Fisher called him out for being a bit bashful about their Star Wars fame, Hamill recounted in a new interview on NPR's Fresh Air — like any good sister would.
    EW.com, EW.com, 4 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Self-effacing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-effacing. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

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