modestly

[mod-ist-lee]

adverb

1. reflecting a moderate or humble estimate of one’s merits, importance, etc.; not boastfully.

   He modestly puts all of his success down to timing.

2. in a way that is free from showy extravagance; not ostentatiously.

   For a billionaire, he lives rather modestly in a home he bought decades ago.

3. in a way that shows regard for decency in behavior, speech, dress, etc..

   When visiting religious sites, avoid offense by dressing modestly: cover your shoulders, torsos, and thighs.

4. within reasonable limits; moderately.

   A modestly priced economy car may be more appropriate for your teenage driver.

Other Word Forms

• hypermodestly adverb
• overmodestly adverb
• pseudomodestly adverb
• quasi-modestly adverb
• supermodestly adverb
• unmodestly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of modestly¹

modest ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

A 2022 systemic review of 87 studies found increased screen time was modestly associated with higher levels of aggression, inattention, anxiety, depression and behavioral problems.

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Rents fell in the West and Northeast and grew modestly in the South and Midwest.

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They’ve gnashed their teeth this year even at budget proposals that would only modestly slow spending.

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There are reasons to be modestly hopeful, but also reason to curb your enthusiasm.

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And yet there were countless empty seats in a modestly sized hall.

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Related Words

• humbly 
• plainly www.thesaurus.com
• quietly 
• simply