modicum

American  

[mod-i-kuhm, moh-di-] / ˈmɒd ɪ kəm, ˈmoʊ dɪ- /

noun

1. a moderate or small amount.

   He hasn't even a modicum of common sense.

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modicum British  

/ ˈmɒdɪkəm /

noun

1. a small amount or portion

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Etymology

Origin of modicum

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin, noun use of neuter of modicus “moderate,” equivalent to modi-, combining form of modus limit ( mode ¹ ) + -cus adjective suffix

Example Sentences

Yes, traders may be overweight the sector, and parts are richly valued in terms of price-to-earnings multiples, but such factors have caused only a modicum of exposure reduction by investors so far.

From MarketWatch

At least not without a modicum of heartbreak.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Eternity” understands the desperation for a modicum of autonomy in this world, yet cleverly reminds viewers that having a choice doesn’t necessarily make life any easier.

From Salon

All that matters, she said, "is who stays longer and who provides some modicum of security and justice when they're in place."

From Barron's

This could get grisly, but let's hope there's a modicum of football played at Hampden.

From BBC

Related Words

• iota
• ounce
• shred