modest
pronunciation
How to pronounce modest in British English:
UK [ˈmɒdɪst]
How to pronounce modest in American English:
US [ˈmɑːdɪst]
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- Adjective:
- marked by simplicity; having a humble opinion of yourself
- not large but sufficient in size or amount
- free from pomp or affectation
- not offensive to sexual mores in conduct or appearance
- low or inferior in station or quality
- humble in spirit or manner; suggesting retiring mildness or even cowed submissiveness
- limited in size or scope
- free from ostentation or pretension
Word Origin
- modest
- modest: [16] Etymologically, modest means ‘kept within due measure’. It comes via French from Latin modestus, a derivative of the same source as produced English moderate. This was *modes-, a close relative of Latin modus ‘measure’ (from which English gets mode and model).=> mode, model
- modest (adj.)
- 1560s, "having moderate self-regard," from Middle French modeste (14c.), from Latin modestus "keeping due measure" (see modesty). Of women, "not improper or lewd," 1590s; of female attire, 1610s. Of demands, etc., c. 1600. Related: Modestly.
Antonym
Example
- 1. Boards seeking modest reorganizations and smooth transitions typically choose an internal candidate .
- 2. For now congress is debating some modest tax incentives .
- 3. Yet there is nothing modest about great wall 's ambition .
- 4. Japan and south korea grew industries from modest beginnings .
- 5. The first week began with modest hopes .