modest
/ˈmɑdəst/
Group 18Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Unassuming in the estimation of one's abilities or achievements; relatively moderate or small GRE
Example in Context
The foundation made a modest investment that, through careful management, grew into a fund that transformed the entire community.
Synonyms
humbleunderstatedmoderate
Etymology
To be measured or moderate in self-presentation.
- mod- (Latin) — measure
- estus (Latin) — to be
Memory Aid
🌱Sounds like “Moss Test”
If you take the MOSS TEST, you’ll find it’s MODEST — not outshining the trees!
Visual Association
🙇♂️A humble person bowing, surrounded by flashy peacocks, feeling modest in their plain attire.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “modest” mean on the GRE?
modest (adjective) means “Unassuming in the estimation of one's abilities or achievements; relatively moderate or small”. The foundation made a modest investment that, through careful management, grew into a fund that transformed the entire community.
How to remember “modest” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “modest” sounds like “Moss Test”. If you take the MOSS TEST, you’ll find it’s MODEST — not outshining the trees!
What are synonyms for “modest”?
Common synonyms: humble, understated, moderate.