Top 31 Slang For Modest – Meaning & Usage

In a world where self-promotion is the norm, staying humble and modest is a rare trait that deserves recognition. Curious about the slang terms that celebrate modesty and humility? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list that will not only keep you in the know but also add a touch of class to your vocabulary. Get ready to embrace the understated coolness of these phrases!

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1. Low-key

This term refers to someone or something that is not flashy or attention-seeking. It is often used to describe a person who prefers to keep a low profile or an event that is not widely publicized.

For example, “I’m having a low-key birthday celebration with just a few close friends.”
A person might say, “I prefer a low-key lifestyle without too much drama.”
When describing a restaurant, someone might say, “It’s a low-key place with great food and a cozy atmosphere.”

2. Down-to-earth

This phrase describes someone who is humble, approachable, and easy to relate to. It implies that the person is not pretentious or overly concerned with material possessions or social status.

For instance, “Despite his success, he remains down-to-earth and always takes time to help others.”
A friend might say, “She’s one of the most down-to-earth people I know. You can always count on her.”
When describing a celebrity, someone might comment, “He’s surprisingly down-to-earth and doesn’t act like a typical Hollywood star.”

3. Humble

This word describes someone who does not boast about their achievements or abilities. It implies a lack of arrogance or excessive pride.

For example, “Despite his success, he remains humble and gives credit to his team.”
A person might say, “I try to stay humble and remember that there’s always more to learn.”
When praising someone’s accomplishments, someone might say, “She’s incredibly talented, but also very humble about her achievements.”

4. Unassuming

This term describes someone who does not draw attention to themselves and does not appear to be important or remarkable. It implies a lack of showiness or self-importance.

For instance, “He’s an unassuming guy who quietly goes about his work without seeking recognition.”
A friend might say, “She’s so unassuming, you wouldn’t guess that she’s a highly successful entrepreneur.”
When describing a colleague, someone might comment, “He’s an unassuming genius who always surprises us with his ideas.”

5. Simple

This word describes someone or something that is not complicated or extravagant. It implies a preference for minimalism and a lack of interest in ostentation.

For example, “She has a simple and straightforward approach to life.”
A person might say, “I like to keep things simple and focus on what truly matters.”
When describing a design or style, someone might comment, “It’s a simple and elegant solution that doesn’t require unnecessary complexity.”

6. Reserved

Reserved refers to someone who is quiet, introverted, and tends to keep their thoughts and feelings to themselves. It can also imply a sense of being cautious or holding back in social situations.

For example, a friend might describe you as “reserved” if you’re not very talkative at a party.
In a job interview, someone might say, “I’m reserved but I work well independently.”
If someone asks why you don’t share your opinions more often, you might respond, “I’m just naturally reserved.”

7. Modest

Modest refers to someone who does not boast or show off their accomplishments, possessions, or abilities. It can also imply a sense of humility and simplicity.

For instance, if someone compliments your outfit, you might respond, “Oh, it’s just a modest little dress.”
A person might say, “I prefer to live a modest lifestyle without unnecessary luxuries.”
When asked about their achievements, someone might say, “I don’t like to brag. I’ve had some modest success in my career.”

8. Meek

Meek refers to someone who is timid, submissive, or easily dominated. It can also imply a lack of assertiveness or a tendency to avoid conflict.

For example, someone might describe a shy and timid person as “meek.”
In a group discussion, a person might say, “I don’t want to rock the boat. I’ll just stay meek and go along with the majority.”
If someone is constantly taken advantage of, a friend might advise, “You need to stop being so meek and stand up for yourself.”

9. Unpretentious

Unpretentious describes someone who is humble, genuine, and unaffected by social status or wealth. It can also imply a lack of pretense or a preference for simplicity.

For instance, a person might say, “I appreciate her unpretentious nature. She’s always herself, no matter who she’s with.”
When describing a restaurant, someone might say, “It’s a small, unpretentious place with great food.”
A friend might compliment your outfit by saying, “I love your unpretentious style. You always look effortlessly cool.”

10. Quiet

Quiet describes someone who speaks softly, doesn’t talk much, or prefers solitude. It can also imply a sense of calmness or a lack of noise.

For example, someone might describe a shy and introverted person as “quiet.”
In a library, a sign might say, “Please keep quiet.”
If someone asks why you don’t speak up more in meetings, you might respond, “I’m just naturally quiet.”

11. Demure

This term refers to someone who is modest and shy in their demeanor and behavior. It often implies a sense of humility and not wanting to draw attention to oneself.

For example, a person might say, “She always dresses in a demure manner, never seeking to stand out.”
In a discussion about personality traits, someone might comment, “I appreciate people who are demure and don’t boast about their achievements.”
A character in a book might be described as “a demure and soft-spoken woman.”

12. Mild-mannered

This term describes someone who is calm and gentle in their behavior, often avoiding conflict or confrontation. It implies a sense of humility and not wanting to cause trouble.

For instance, a person might say, “He’s a mild-mannered individual who always treats others with respect.”
In a discussion about superheroes, someone might say, “Clark Kent is known for his mild-mannered alter ego, Superman.”
A teacher might describe a student as “mild-mannered and well-behaved.”

13. Unostentatious

This term refers to someone or something that is not showy or flashy, but rather modest and simple. It implies a lack of desire to attract attention or flaunt wealth or status.

For example, a person might say, “She prefers unostentatious jewelry that doesn’t draw too much attention.”
In a discussion about home decor, someone might say, “I prefer a minimalist and unostentatious style.”
A reviewer might describe a restaurant as “unostentatious,“unostentatious, focusing on high-quality food rather than extravagant decor.”

14. Plain

This term describes something that is unadorned or lacking in embellishment. It implies a sense of modesty and a preference for simplicity over extravagance.

For instance, a person might say, “She always dresses in plain clothes, never seeking attention.”
In a discussion about food, someone might say, “I prefer plain and simple flavors, without too much seasoning.”
A writer might describe a character as “a plain and unassuming person.”

15. Conservative

This term refers to someone who is cautious and traditional in their behavior and beliefs. It implies a preference for moderation and avoiding extremes.

For example, a person might say, “He’s a conservative dresser, always opting for classic and timeless styles.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “She has conservative views on social issues.”
A parent might describe their child as “conservative in their spending habits,“conservative in their spending habits, always saving money rather than splurging.”

16. Bashful

This term refers to someone who is shy and easily embarrassed or embarrassed. It can also be used to describe someone who is hesitant or reluctant to draw attention to themselves.

For example, a person might say, “She’s so bashful, she always blushes when someone compliments her.”
In a discussion about personality traits, someone might mention, “I tend to be bashful in social situations.”
A friend might tease, “Don’t be so bashful, show off your talents!”

17. Self-effacing

This term describes someone who is modest and downplays their own abilities or achievements. They tend to avoid drawing attention to themselves and may even make self-deprecating remarks.

For instance, a person might say, “He’s so self-effacing, he never takes credit for his accomplishments.”
In a conversation about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader is self-effacing and gives credit to their team.”
A friend might compliment, “I admire your self-effacing nature, you never boast about your achievements.”

18. Shy

This term describes someone who is reserved and hesitant in social situations. They may feel uncomfortable or anxious when interacting with others, especially in large groups or unfamiliar settings.

For example, a person might say, “She’s always been shy, it takes time for her to open up to new people.”
In a discussion about public speaking, someone might admit, “I get really shy and nervous when I have to speak in front of a crowd.”
A friend might encourage, “Don’t be shy, just be yourself and people will appreciate you.”

19. Timid

This term describes someone who lacks confidence or courage and may be easily intimidated or frightened. They may hesitate to take risks or speak up in certain situations.

For instance, a person might say, “He’s too timid to try new things, he’s afraid of failure.”
In a conversation about assertiveness, someone might comment, “Being timid can hold you back from reaching your full potential.”
A friend might reassure, “Don’t be timid, believe in yourself and go after what you want.”

20. Quietly confident

This term describes someone who is self-assured and confident in their abilities, but does not feel the need to boast or seek validation from others. They have a quiet sense of self-assurance.

For example, a person might say, “She’s quietly confident, she doesn’t need to brag about her accomplishments.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might mention, “A good leader is quietly confident and inspires others through their actions.”
A friend might admire, “I love your quietly confident demeanor, you don’t need to prove yourself to anyone.”

21. Understated

This term refers to something that is subtle or not flashy. It can describe a person’s style, behavior, or even a design.

For example, “Her understated outfit was elegant and sophisticated.”
A person might say, “I prefer understated jewelry that doesn’t draw too much attention.”
When describing a minimalist home, someone might say, “The decor is understated yet inviting.”

22. Laid-back

This slang term describes a person who is relaxed, calm, and not easily stressed. It can also refer to a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

For instance, “He’s a laid-back guy who doesn’t let things bother him.”
Someone might say, “I love hanging out with laid-back people who don’t take themselves too seriously.”
When describing a vacation destination, a traveler might say, “It’s a laid-back beach town with a chill vibe.”

23. Modestly

This word is used to describe someone who doesn’t boast or show off their achievements or possessions. It can also refer to something that is done in a humble or unpretentious manner.

For example, “She modestly accepted the award, thanking her team for their support.”
When discussing personal accomplishments, someone might say, “I like to modestly celebrate my achievements without bragging.”
A person might describe their cooking skills by saying, “I modestly think I make a pretty good lasagna.”

24. Tasteful

This slang term describes something that is done or presented with good taste or style. It can refer to clothing, decor, behavior, or any other aspect of aesthetics.

For instance, “She always dresses in a tasteful and classy manner.”
When describing a well-decorated room, someone might say, “The furniture and artwork create a tasteful ambiance.”
A person might comment on a friend’s cooking by saying, “Your dish is not only delicious but also tastefully presented.”

25. Unboastful

This word describes someone who doesn’t boast or brag about their achievements or possessions. It emphasizes the absence of arrogance or boasting.

For example, “He’s unboastful about his success and prefers to let his work speak for itself.”
When talking about a friend, someone might say, “She’s unboastful about her talents and always encourages others.”
A person might describe their own accomplishments by saying, “I try to remain unboastful and focus on continuous improvement.”

26. Chill

This term refers to someone who is calm, cool, and laid-back in their demeanor and behavior. It can also describe a situation or atmosphere that is calm and low-stress.

For example, “He’s always so chill, nothing seems to bother him.”
A person might say, “Let’s have a chill night in and watch movies.”
Someone might describe a party as, “It was a chill gathering with good music and good vibes.”

27. Mellow

Similar to “chill,” this term describes someone who is relaxed and easygoing. It can also refer to a smooth and calming atmosphere or experience.

For instance, “She has such a mellow personality, nothing ever gets her worked up.”
A person might say, “I love listening to mellow music while I unwind.”
Someone might describe a vacation as, “We stayed at a mellow beach resort and just enjoyed the peaceful surroundings.”

28. Easygoing

This term describes someone who is relaxed and doesn’t get easily stressed or worked up. It can also refer to a situation or environment that is low-pressure and laid-back.

For example, “He’s so easygoing, he never lets things bother him.”
A person might say, “Let’s have an easygoing lunch at that new café.”
Someone might describe a workplace as, “It’s an easygoing office where everyone gets along.”

29. Tame

This term refers to something that is not extreme or wild, but rather calm and subdued. It can also describe someone who is modest and not showy or attention-seeking.

For instance, “The party was pretty tame, just a few close friends hanging out.”
A person might say, “I prefer a tame hairstyle, nothing too bold or flashy.”
Someone might describe their fashion style as, “I like to keep it tame and classic.”

30. Mild

This term describes something that is not intense or extreme, but rather gentle and moderate. It can also refer to someone who is humble and not boastful.

For example, “The weather is mild today, not too hot or cold.”
A person might say, “I like my salsa mild, I can’t handle too much spice.”
Someone might describe a person as, “He’s very mild-mannered and never brags about his accomplishments.”

31. Temperate

This term refers to someone who is modest, moderate, or restrained in their actions, behavior, or speech. It implies a sense of humility and not drawing attention to oneself.

For example, a person might say, “She is a temperate individual who never boasts about her accomplishments.”
In a discussion about leadership qualities, someone might mention, “A good leader is temperate and doesn’t let their ego get in the way.”
A friend might compliment another by saying, “You’re so temperate, always putting others before yourself.”