English Reference
noun

modesty

n.
US /ˈmɑdəsti/ UK /mˈɒdəsti/ mod·esty UK spelling modesties

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the quality of not talking too much about your own success or being too proud of your skills.

    the quality of being humble and having a moderate estimation of one's own talents or accomplishments.

    Simple

    Despite winning the gold medal, his modesty made him credit his teammates for the victory.

    In context

    Her genuine modesty regarding her scientific breakthroughs made her a beloved figure among her peers, who were more accustomed to competitive egoism.

    humilityunpretentiousness
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

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

    adherence to social or religious standards of propriety in dress and behavior, specifically to avoid sexual explicitness.

    Simple

    She chose a dress with a high neckline out of a sense of modesty.

    In context

    The cultural expectations of modesty in the region required visitors to cover their shoulders and knees when entering sacred spaces.

    indecencyimmodesty
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    the quality of being small or limited in size or amount.

    the state of being limited in scale, cost, or ambition; often used to describe budgets or goals.

    Simple

    The modesty of their budget meant they had to choose a very simple wedding venue.

    In context

    The sheer modesty of the project's initial goals stood in stark contrast to the massive international impact it eventually achieved.

    moderationhumbleness
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated