modesty

[mod-uh-stee]

noun

plural

modesties 

1. the quality of being modest; freedom from vanity, boastfulness, etc.

2. regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.

3. simplicity; moderation.

modesty

/ ˈmɒdɪstɪ /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being modest

2. (modifier) designed to prevent inadvertent exposure of part of the body

   a modesty flap

Other Word Forms

• overmodesty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of modesty¹

From the Latin word modestia, dating back to 1525–35. See modest, -y ³

Example Sentences

It strikes its own manner of saluting the man and the game and the accomplishments with a lot of modesty, I think.

From Los Angeles Times

One of Jepsen’s most effective tricks as a pop sort-of-star is the modesty of her presentation, which lends a crucial believability to her many songs about feeling overwhelmed.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet the brothers describe their ambitions these days with a modesty distinct from the early 2000s.

From Los Angeles Times

Earhart was full of mischief and adventure, a natural leader with a modesty instilled by her mother, who was prone to invoking her Quaker background when it suited her.

From Los Angeles Times

But when you work so hard and so long to achieve one thing — and, perhaps more importantly, people actually start to listen to what you have to say — the modesty may start to slip away.

From Salon

Related Words

• decency 
• humility 
• propriety 
• purity 
• reticence 
• simplicity 
• virtue