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July 15, 2026

demure

/dɪˈmjʊə/adjective

Quiet, modest, and a little shy in manner.

Example sentences

  • “The demure new intern rarely spoke unless someone asked her a question.”
  • “She gave a demure smile and lowered her eyes when they praised her painting.”

Traditionally applied mostly to women and their manner or dress, which can make it sound dated or loaded in modern writing.

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