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Word of the Day
demure
adjective
Reserved, modest, and shy; affectedly or prudishly modest.
Common - Frequently used in everyday language
Etymology
From Old French meur "mature, grave, serious," perhaps influenced by de- prefix. Originally meant "grave, serious."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"She gave a demure smile and looked away."
- 2.
"The actress played the demure ingenue."
- 3.
"His demure manner hid a sharp wit."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
modestreservedshycoyunassuming
Related Words
bashfulretiringmeektimid
Fun Fact
Demure originally meant "mature" or "grave"—quite different from today's meaning. The shift to "modest, shy" happened gradually through association with composed, serious behavior in women.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 6 letters (D, E, M, U, R, E)
Scrabble Value: 9 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "DEMURE" appears in many related words.
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