Mōd'est, a.
a. [Lat. modestus, from modus, measure; It. & Sp. modesto, Fr. modeste. See MODE.]
Sense 1. Restrained within due limits of propriety or decency; not forward, bold, or presumptuous; rather retiring than pushing one's self forward; not obtrusive; as, a modest youth; a modest man.
Sense 2. Observing the proprieties of the sex; not unwomanly in act or bearing; free from familiarity, indecency, or lewdness; — said of a female. “The blushing beauties of a modest maid.” Dryden. “Mrs. Ford, the honest woman, the modest wife.” Shak.
Sense 3. Evincing modesty in the actor or author; not showing presumption; not excessive or extreme; moderate; as, a modest request; modest joy; a modest estimate; a modest style.
Synonyms— Reserved; unobtrusive; diffident; bashful; coy; shy; decent; becoming; chaste; virtuous.