What does humbly mean?
Humbly describes the way a person speaks, acts, or expresses gratitude with modesty and respect. It often appears in formal situations, such as accepting praise, requesting a favour, or acknowledging another person’s help. The word generally conveys humility rather than weakness, although repeated or exaggerated use can sound overly self-effacing. In expressions such as “I humbly suggest” or “I am humbly grateful,” it provides a courteous and deferential tone. Because it derives from the adjective humble, the adverb also suggests being unpretentious and conscious of one’s place in relation to others. It is widely understood in both British and American English.
adverbIn a humble, modest, or deferential manner. It can describe how someone speaks, acts, asks, or expresses gratitude.
- In a modest, unassuming, or deferential manner, often emphasizing respect toward another person or group.
"She humbly thanked the volunteers who had supported the project."
"The student humbly asked the professor for a few extra minutes to finish the presentation."
"He humbly accepted the award and credited his team for the success."
The adverb 'humbly' turns humility into a manner of speaking and acting, from a quiet request to a sincere expression of gratitude.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does humbly come from?
The adverb is formed from the English adjective humble by adding the suffix -ly. The adjective descends through Old French humble from Latin humilis, a term associated with being low, modest, or humble. The same broad Latin root also underlies related English words such as humility and humiliate, although their meanings have developed in different directions.
Related word forms
How humbly is actually used
Commonly used in formal, respectful, or appreciative contexts. It can sound sincere and courteous, but may sound excessively self-effacing or insincere in some situations.