Modest
/ˈmɒd.ɪst/noun
Having a moderate or humble view of one's importance.
Did you know?The word 'modest' is linked to the Latin 'modestus', which means 'keeping due measure', reflecting an ancient belief in balance and moderation as virtues.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*med-
“to measure or take appropriate action.”
Latin
Latin
modestus
“keeping due measure, moderate, moderate in behavior.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
modestia
“moderation, humility.”
Old French
Old French
modeste
“humble, moderate.”
Middle English
Middle English
modest
“having a moderate or humble view of one's importance.”
Modern English
English
modest
“characterized by moderation or humility.”