Synonyms

humbly

American

[huhm-blee, uhm-] / ˈhʌm bli, ˈʌm- /

adverb

in a way that is not proud or arrogant; modestly.

He humbly accepted the award on behalf of his friends and colleagues.
in a way that shows insignificance, inferiority, or subservience.

I made my suggestions humbly, realizing the vast experience of the others in the room.
in a respectfully courteous way.

I humbly request that you give us some time to discuss this privately.

Other Word Forms

overhumbly adverb
quasi-humbly adverb
unhumbly adverb

Etymology

Origin of humbly

humb(le) ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“A few of the seventh graders I guess they know me kind of,” Lappe said humbly.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2026

A sanguine temper would say ten or twelve; let me dare to hope humbly for five or six.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

"Today, I humbly assume the presidency of the republic... in order to install and lead a transitional government," Jeri told parliament after being sworn in.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

“I cannot continue my reelection campaign,” Adams humbly submitted on camera as he sat next to a large headshot of his late mother, with Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” playing in the background.

From Slate • Sep. 29, 2025

He groveled on his belly and came up to her smiling, head lowered humbly.

From "Julie of the Wolves" by Jean Craighead George

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023