adj. 1. Having or showing a moderate estimation of one's own abilities, accomplishments, or value: was too modest to talk about his success. 2. a. Having or proceeding from a disinclination to call attention to oneself; retiring or diffident: a quiet, modest demeanor. b. Observing conventional proprieties in speech, behavior, or dress, especially in the avoidance of arousing sexual interest. 3. a. Free from showiness or ostentation; unpretentious: a house with modest furnishings. See Synonyms at plain. b. Moderate or limited in size, quantity, or range; not extreme: a modest price; a newspaper with a modest circulation. modest·ly adv. |
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