modest

Free from vanity

Modest describes something moderate or unpretentious.

A modest income is adequate but not lavish.

A modest proposal doesn't ask for much.

A modest person doesn't boast about accomplishments or draw attention to themselves—sometimes genuinely humble, sometimes falsely so.

Modest also means not revealing too much of the body: modest dress.

She was modest about her achievements.

humble

unassuming

Not making claims

unpretentious · bashful · retiring · diffident · lowly · understated · self-deprecating · gracious · grounded · simple

simple

plain

Basic and unremarkable

unpretentious · understated · minimalist · functional · utilitarian · bare · no-frills · unembellished · homely · austere

demure

reserved

Restrained in manner

  • shyReserved and retiring
  • timidLacking courage or confidence
  • coyAffectedly modest

quiet · gentle · soft-spoken · decorous · proper · introverted · unobtrusive · subdued · ladylike · seemly

moderate

reasonable

Showing sound judgment

slight · minor · middling · ordinary · fair · adequate · sufficient · unexceptional · average · humble

chaste

purity

Uncontaminated quality

propriety · respectability · virginity · innocence · celibacy · abstinence · temperance · integrity · uprightness · sobriety

restrained

self-control

Ability to restrain impulses

prudence · caution · measured · guarded · circumspect · tactful · diplomatic · subtle · low-key · tasteful

Categories
Opposites
self-assessment and ego

modestarrogant

Excessively high self-regard

conceited · vain · boastful · proud · cocky

scale and ambition

modestgrand

Imposing or splendid

grandiose · ambitious · extravagant · enormous · great

display and presentation

modestostentatious

Showily excessive

showy · flamboyant · flashy · gaudy · extravagant

Phrases
Family

model, modern, mode, modesty, moderation, moderator, modestly, moderate, immodest

Familiarity
Top 5,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G