humility

American  

[hyoo-mil-i-tee, yoo-] / hyuˈmɪl ɪ ti, yu- /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc.

   Synonyms:

   submissiveness, meekness, lowliness

   Antonyms:

   pride

---

humility British  

/ hjuːˈmɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being humble

---

Etymology

Origin of humility

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English humilite, from Latin humilitās; humble, -ty ²

Compare meaning

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

• humbleness vs. humility

Example Sentences

There is a fine line between humility and confidence, but he said he can get a glimpse of that balance in the way candidates talk about their accomplishments.

From MarketWatch

In a statement, the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Trust said it would "fully support the process with transparency, openness and humility".

From BBC

“With all humility and modesty, I am the only guy who is capable of doing this because of the scale we have, number one,” Sharma said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Today, we start this journey with immense pride, but also with humility.

From Barron's

Long after she stepped over that pony dung as a youngster, Dolly has exhibited decency, compassion, humility and a mighty sense of humor.

From Salon

Related Words

• shyness