# demure

/dɪmˈjʊɹ/ (US) · /dɪmjˈɔː/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/demure
Updated: 2026-08-14

## Definition

behaving in a quiet and polite way that doesn't attract attention. It's often used to describe someone who seems shy and well-behaved.

For teachers: quiet, reserved, and modest in behaviour or appearance. Typically used to describe women, it can connote shyness or a conventional sense of propriety.

## Examples

- She gives a demure smile and looks away.
- Contrary to her on-screen persona, the actress was quiet and demure in person, avoiding the press.
- The character's demure exterior concealed a sharp wit and a fiercely independent spirit, subverting the expectations set by her quiet demeanor.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.