English Reference
Noun

humility

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US /hjuˈmɪɫɪti/ UK /hjuːmˈɪlɪti/ hu·mil·i·ty UK spelling humilities

n.the quality of not thinking you are better or more important than other people. It is about being modest and knowing that you are not perfect.

n.the quality of having a modest or low view of one's own importance. Often associated with a lack of pride or arrogance.


SIMPLE

He showed great humility by admitting his mistake.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite her international fame, the scientist spoke with a humility that made everyone in the room feel comfortable.

COMPLEX

True leadership often requires a delicate balance of confidence and humility, allowing a person to guide others while remaining open to constructive criticism and self-improvement.

Usage

Uncountable in its abstract sense; frequently follows the preposition 'with' or the verb 'show'.

First, everyone who insists that they know how Covid began should back off, accept ongoing uncertainty and display a bit more humility.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026

In Elder Marshall's words, menaraj pemwije'tul'tik —a Mi'kmaw teaching meaning "to walk together gently"—invites us to live with intention, humility and care for all, including the smallest beings.

Phys.org· 21 Aug 2026

From Middle English humilite, from Old French (h)umilité, from Latin humilitas (“lowness, meanness, baseness, in Late Latin humility”), from humilis (“low, lowly, humble, earth”). Equivalent to humble + -ity, with /mb/ reduced to /m/ (compare plumbing). Displaced native Old English ēaþmōdnes. Doublet of omertà.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin humilitas
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated