Mod"est (?), a. [F. modeste, L.
modestus, fr. modus measure. See Mode.]
1. Restraining within due limits of propriety;
not forward, bold, boastful, or presumptious; rather retiring than
pushing one's self forward; not obstructive; as, a modest
youth; a modest man.
2. Observing the proprieties of the sex; not
unwomanly in act or bearing; free from undue familiarity, indecency,
or lewdness; decent in speech and demeanor; -- said of a
woman.
Mrs. Ford, the honest woman, the modest
wife.
Shak.
The blushing beauties of a modest
maid.
Dryden.
3. Evincing modestly in the actor, author, or
speaker; not showing presumption; not excessive or extreme; moderate;
as, a modest request; modest joy.
Syn. -- Reserved; unobtrusive; diffident; bashful; coy;
shy; decent; becoming; chaste; virtuous.