demure

[dih-myoor]

adjective

demurer, demurest 

1. characterized by shyness and modesty; reserved.

   Synonyms: retiring
   Antonyms: indecorous

2. affectedly or coyly decorous, sober, or sedate.

   Antonyms: indecorous

demure

/ dɪˈmjʊə /

adjective

1. sedate; decorous; reserved

2. affectedly modest or prim; coy

Other Word Forms

• demurely adverb
• demureness noun
• undemure adjective
• undemurely adverb
• undemureness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of demure¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English dem(e)ur(e) “well-mannered, grave,” from Anglo-French demuré, past participle of demurer “to demur”; perhaps influenced by Old French mur, mëur “grave, mature” (from Latin matūrus ); demur

Word History and Origins

Origin of demure¹

C14: perhaps from Old French demorer to delay, linger; perhaps influenced by meur ripe, _mature

Synonym Study

See modest.

Example Sentences

Others opt for the registry office and a demure lunch with close friends, and prefer to save their money for a house.

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Following “the Sydney Cherkov way,” she wears a lilac blouse that telegraphs meek, demure energy.

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Actually, that was the same day I shot that “demure” TikTok.

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Her sweet ballads fooled many into thinking she was fragile and demure.

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The garment’s austere black and silver palette projects a demure yet powerful mix of luxury and restraint.

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Related Words

• prim 
• reticent 
• timid 
• unassuming