adjective
modest
Restrained in dress or behavior according to standards of decency.
She chooses a modest dress for the ceremony.
Etymology
The Latin adjective emphasizes keeping within measure or bounds. Its social meaning applies that restraint to dress and conduct considered proper or decent.
More examples
- The invitation requested modest clothing.
- He preferred modest swimwear.
- The school’s guidance described its expectations for modest dress.
Forms
modest
modestly adverb — with restraint in dress or behavior
Similar words
- reserved
- Restrained in behavior.
- unrevealing
- Covering the body rather than exposing it.