What does immodestly mean?
“Immodestly” means in a way that shows excessive pride, vanity, or boastfulness. It is used when someone speaks or acts with a confidence that disregards social restraint or the opinions and achievements of others. The word is often critical: saying that someone spoke “immodestly” suggests that their claims were exaggerated, their manner was overbearing, or they failed to show appropriate modesty. In literary, journalistic, and formal criticism, it can describe both spoken and written behaviour, including advertising and public claims. The adverb derives from “immodest,” which in turn comes from the same Latin root as “modest” and “modesty,” but it carries a more strongly negative evaluation than the neutral phrase “with pride.” It is useful when describing conduct or speech that goes beyond confidence into self-important display.
adverbIn a way that displays excessive pride, self-importance, or lack of restraint; arrogantly or boastfully.
- In an immodest manner, with excessive pride, vanity, boastfulness, or disregard for others’ opinions.
"She immodestly announced that her painting was the finest in the entire exhibition."
"He immodestly claimed that he had solved the problem before anyone else had even understood it."
"The advertisement immodestly promised that the product would transform every aspect of daily life."
Calling something “immodest” can be playful, but calling a person “immodest” often delivers a sharper social judgment.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does immodestly come from?
“Immodestly” was formed in the early 17th century from “immodest” and the adverbial suffix “-ly.” The adjective “immodest” comes through French from Latin “immodestus,” formed from the negative prefix “in-” and “modestus,” meaning moderate or modest. The same Latin root also lies behind English “modest,” “modesty,” and “modestly,” creating a family of words concerned with restraint, decorum, and the display of pride.
Related word forms
How immodestly is actually used
The adverb is formal and often carries a critical or disapproving tone. It is especially common in literary and journalistic criticism, while less formal settings may prefer words such as “braggingly” or “boastfully.”
Easily confused with immodestly
“Immodestly” describes the manner in which someone behaves or speaks, while “immodest” describes the person, behaviour, or claim itself.