humbleness

American  

[huhm-buhl-nis, uhm-] / ˈhʌm bəl nɪs, ˈʌm- /

noun

1. the quality or state of being modest and lacking in pride or arrogance.

   We need to teach a different kind of leadership, one where humbleness is more important than confidence.

2. the quality or state of being or feeling low in rank, importance, status, worth, etc.

   We observed the humbleness of the local homes, but also the hard-working ethic of the people who lived in them.

3. the quality or state of being courteously respectful.

   Respect and humbleness will get you far in dealing with people from other places and cultures.

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Other Word Forms

• overhumbleness noun
• unhumbleness noun

Etymology

Origin of humbleness

humble ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does humbleness compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• humbleness vs. humility

Explanation

Humbleness is a quality of being modest or unpretentious. Your humbleness is what keeps you from bragging about all the places you've traveled and the many languages you speak. True humbleness is characterized by humility and a certain quietness or reserve. Showing off, exaggerating your accomplishments, and refusing to listen to other people's advice and opinions are all the opposite of humbleness. Sometimes this noun is also used to mean an ordinary or lowly state: "The humbleness of her upbringing made paying for college a struggle."

Example Sentences

Where basic training stories like this usually involve a cocky or spoiled character learning a lesson about humbleness and teamwork, Cam is coming from a place of insecurity and fear.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2025

Showing a humbleness which motivates others was illustrated off court when, in 2018, he led from the front to help his home island of Mallorca recover from devastating flash flooding.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2024

The fact that she doesn't have biological children might not have been weaponized as a rebuke of her "humbleness."

From Salon • Nov. 6, 2024

“She had tears in her eyes and those were tears of joy and humbleness and I just wanted to hug her.”

From Washington Times • Jan. 15, 2023

The Isle-Men of Low Torning, standing in awe of the wizard from Roke, asked pardon for its humbleness.

From "A Wizard of Earthsea" by Ursula K. Le Guin