modicum

[mod-i-kuhm, moh-di-]

noun

1. a moderate or small amount.

   He hasn't even a modicum of common sense.

modicum

/ ˈmɒdɪkəm /

noun

1. a small amount or portion

Word History and Origins

Origin of modicum¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of modicum¹

C15: from Latin: a little way, from modicus moderate

Example Sentences

“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.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on Barron's

It couldn’t hurt and it seems there’s literally nothing else we can do to exert any modicum of control over billionaires who are exacerbating environmental degradation and dangerous technology.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Their response proved that they would rather watch New York disintegrate than allow people who are struggling economically to get even a modicum of relief.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• iota 
• ounce 
• shred