# humbling

/ˈhəmbəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈʌmblɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/humbling
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

making you feel less proud or important because you realize you are not as great as you thought. It often happens when you see something very impressive or when you make a mistake.

For teachers: causing a loss of pride or self-importance; leading to a realization of one's own limitations or relative insignificance. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be' or 'feel'.

## Examples

- Winning the award was a truly humbling experience.
- Standing at the foot of the massive mountain was humbling, making the hikers feel very small.
- The veteran athlete found it humbling to be outpaced by a teenager, acknowledging that his physical dominance was finally beginning to wane after a decade at the top.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a participial adjective following 'be', 'feel', or 'find it'.

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