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

He also noted the body horror, especially in two “monstrous” birth sequences, providing an adequate scare, and there’s a “modicum of well-done fright effects.”

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We realize it’s quaint these days to talk about the Founders, but they granted an unlimited pardon power because they anticipated at least a modicum of presidential restraint.

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In any case, it’s very much a work of television — not what I’d call prestige television, despite a modicum of well-done fright effects — just ordinary, workman-like TV, with monsters.

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When the person in charge of the nation’s civil rights enforcement can’t muster even a modicum of civility, we’re living in some very dark times indeed.

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CBS staff, according to reporting, worry that bringing in Weiss will reduce the willingness of the network to maintain a modicum of editorial independence to cover pro‑Palestinian views in a balanced manner.

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Related Words

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• ounce 
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