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 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

Ferguson said she had "humbly apologised" and knew Epstein would feel "hellaciously let down by me".

From BBC • Sep. 26, 2025

Doubtless it was one god only, he thought more humbly as he rolled up his mat and started for the storeroom.

From "The Golden Goblet" by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

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