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Definitions

demure

[dih-myoor] / dɪˈmyʊər /
ADJECTIVE
reserved, affected
Synonyms
STRONGEST
prim reticent timid unassuming
WEAK
backward bashful blushing close coy decorous diffident earnest humble modest nice prissy proper prudish retiring sedate serious shy silent skittish sober solemn staid strait-laced unassertive unassured
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bold brave
WEAK
aggressive extroverted outgoing shameless strong

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Others opt for the registry office and a demure lunch with close friends, and prefer to save their money for a house.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 25, 2025

Tseggai’s Miriam seems demure but delivers a wild monologue about her unhappy marriage and subsequent all-consuming affair that confirms you can’t judge a book by its cover.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 7, 2025

Following “the Sydney Cherkov way,” she wears a lilac blouse that telegraphs meek, demure energy.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2025

One of them was very demure and mindful - think soft pastels, pussy bow blouses and pleats - as demonstrated by Chanel and Balenciaga.

From BBC • Dec. 31, 2024

Her maids carried them upstairs and demure Penelope retired with great contentment in her heart.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.