modest
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
not talking too much about your own abilities or successes.
unpretentious and humble regarding one's own abilities, achievements, or status.
Simple“Despite winning the gold medal, she remained modest and thanked her coach.”
In context“The author was remarkably modest about her success, often attributing her best-selling novels to luck rather than her own literary talent.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
not very large, expensive, or important.
moderate or limited in size, quantity, or scope; not excessive or ostentatious.
Simple“They live in a modest house on the edge of town.”
In context“The company reported a modest increase in profits this quarter, which satisfied investors without causing a surge in stock prices.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
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.
Simple“She chose a modest dress for the religious ceremony.”
In context“The school's dress code requires students to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees during formal assemblies.”
Synonyms
“Because the energy difference between these choices is very small, even modest pressure can favor some directions over others.”
“I live in a modest house and have a small amount of savings, so I know that this money could soon run out if I ever needed care later in life.”
From Middle French modeste, from Latin modestus.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.