modicum
Americannoun
noun
"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012Etymology
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“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
The plan, funded through an 88-cent-per-ticket fee, was created in 1982 to provide a “modicum of financial security” to retired fighters, according to the state statute.
From Los Angeles Times
Her shameless, shameful actions and blatant attempt to Etch-A-Sketch away the past is an insult to anyone with even a modicum of intelligence.
From Los Angeles Times
The benefits aren't simply that I might endure a modicum of less scorn from the locals when I try to get around France.
From Salon
The committee vote effectively kills the bill for this year’s legislative session but provides a modicum of hope to casino supporters that it can be revived in the future.
From Seattle Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
