What does modestest mean?
“Modestest” is the superlative form of “modest,” and it has two connected uses. In its most common sense, it describes the person who is least showy, boastful, or self-important, especially among a group of people. In this use, “modestest” often conveys admiration for someone's humility, although it can also be mildly ironic when applied to someone who is conspicuously trying to appear unassuming. Its second sense is quantitative: something that is the smallest in size, amount, or degree. For example, a “modestest increase” is the smallest increase being considered. The word is grammatically standard but somewhat less frequent in casual speech than “most modest.” Its tone is generally positive and respectful in the first sense, while the second sense is straightforward and often used in formal or technical contexts.
adjectiveThe superlative of modest: showing the greatest lack of self-importance, showiness, or exaggeration. It can also mean smallest in size, amount, or degree.
- Showing the greatest humility or lack of self-importance.
- Smallest in size, amount, or degree.
"Despite her success, she remained the modestest person in the room."
"He was the modestest applicant, describing his achievements without exaggeration."
"The installation required the modestest adjustment to fit the available space."
Sometimes the most impressive person in the room is the one making the least noise about it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of modestest
The word belongs to the English adjective “modest,” which was borrowed from French and ultimately from Latin “modestus,” meaning moderate, modest, or within proper limits. The Latin family also includes the related forms “modestly” and “modesty,” which developed their own English meanings concerning humility and restrained behavior. The superlative ending “-est” was added in accordance with the regular English pattern for adjectives.
Related word forms
How modestest is actually used
The word is more commonly used predicatively, as in “the most modest,” than in its contracted superlative form. It can sound slightly literary or old-fashioned in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with modestest
“Modest” describes a moderate degree of humility or size, while “modestest” is the superlative and means the most modest of a group or the smallest possible amount.