marked by simplicity; having a humble opinion of yourself
"a modest apartment"
"too modest to wear his medals"
free from pomp or affectation
"comfortable but modest cottages"
"a simple rectangular brick building"
"a simple man with simple tastes"
not offensive to sexual mores in conduct or appearance
"a modest neckline in her dress covered her up to her collarbone"
relatively moderate, limited, or small
"a small business"
"a newspaper with a modest circulation"
"small-scale plans"
"a pocket-size country"
Not bragging or boasting about oneself or one's achievements; unpretentious, humble.
"Despite winning the award, she remained modest and refused to accept any applause during her acceptance speech."
In plain English: Modest means having an accurate view of your own abilities without bragging about them.
"He lives in a modest house near the park."
Usage: Use modest to describe someone who is humble and does not boast about their abilities or accomplishments. This word often contrasts with arrogant behavior but can also refer simply to something small in size when describing objects like dresses or portions.
The word modest comes from the Middle French term modeste, which was borrowed from the Latin modestus. Originally, it described someone who showed proper respect and restraint in their behavior.