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REFERENCE

modest

adj.
US //ˈmɑdəst// UK //mˈɒdəst// mod·est
  1. 1 humble about achievements (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not talking too much about your own abilities or successes.

    unpretentious and humble regarding one's own abilities, achievements, or status.

    Example

    Despite winning the gold medal, she remained modest and thanked her coach.

    Example

    The author was remarkably modest about her success, often attributing her best-selling novels to luck rather than her own literary talent.
  2. 2 small or moderate (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not very large, expensive, or important.

    moderate or limited in size, quantity, or scope; not excessive or ostentatious.

    Example

    They live in a modest house on the edge of town.

    Example

    The company reported a modest increase in profits this quarter, which satisfied investors without causing a surge in stock prices.
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  1. 3 conservative in dress (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    dressing or behaving in a way that does not show too much of the body.

    conforming to traditional standards of propriety in dress or behaviour, specifically to avoid attracting sexual attention.

    Example

    She chose a modest dress for the religious ceremony.

    Example

    The school's dress code requires students to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees during formal assemblies.
Origin

From Middle French modeste, from Latin modestus.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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