self-effacing

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.

So self-effacing is Rembrandt, in fact, that some portraits, and this is one, seem to have come into being independent of human agency.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

In the pilot, she is insecure and self-effacing; when a car almost runs her over, she apologizes to the driver.

From Salon • Dec. 15, 2025

Vaill also takes exception to the characterization of Eliza as self-effacing.

From Slate • Oct. 21, 2025

“It’s more of a self-effacing humor. Their favorite target is themselves. And John did that. On screen, I felt his willingness and joy in self-effacing humor that never really veered into self-loathing humor.”

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 8, 2025

It always startled Bloom that his feminine, self-effacing wife not only liked to be in front on a hike, but also could maintain a strong, even pace.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols