modesto
“modesto” means “humble” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
humble
Also: modest
📝 In Action
Él es un hombre muy modesto a pesar de su éxito.
A2He is a very humble man despite his success.
No seas tan modesta, ¡tu dibujo es increíble!
B1Don't be so modest, your drawing is incredible!
Siempre mantiene un perfil modesto en las reuniones.
B2He always keeps a modest profile in meetings.
modest
Also: unpretentious, small
📝 In Action
Vivimos en una casa modesta en las afueras.
A2We live in a modest house on the outskirts.
El equipo celebró un éxito modesto este año.
B1The team celebrated a modest success this year.
Tiene un sueldo modesto pero le alcanza para vivir bien.
B2He has a modest salary but it's enough for him to live well.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: modesto
Question 1 of 3
If you describe a famous scientist as 'modesto,' what are you saying?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'modestus,' which describes something that 'keeps due measure' or is 'moderate.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'modesto' always a positive word?
Yes, generally it is a compliment for a person (meaning they are humble) or a neutral, polite way to describe a simple object.
Can I use 'modesto' for a person's clothes?
Yes! If someone wears simple clothes that aren't flashy or expensive, you can say they dress in a 'manera modesta'.
Does 'modesto' mean the same thing as 'pobre' (poor)?
Not exactly. 'Modesto' implies simplicity and lack of luxury, whereas 'pobre' specifically means a lack of money. You can be rich but live in a modesto home by choice.