adjective
modest
MAH-dist/ˈmɑːdɪst/
Limited rather than exaggerated in its claims or scale.
The modest winner shares credit with teammates while holding the trophy low.
Etymology
Modestus expressed keeping within due measure. Applied to self-regard, demands, or appearance, that restraint becomes humility, lack of excess, or avoidance of showiness.
In context
the funded ratios showing some modest improvement but again that year-over-year change in the funded ratio is relatively small
More examples
- The company reports a modest increase in sales.
- The researchers make modest claims about their findings.
- They live in a modest house near the park.
Forms
modest · more modest · most modest
modestly adverb — To a limited or moderate degree.
Similar words
- moderate
- Emphasizes a middle range rather than a small scale.
- small
- Describes size or amount directly, without suggesting restraint.
- restrained
- Emphasizes deliberate control rather than simply limited size.