Definition

Adverb: - In a manner that is reserved, modest, and shy, often with an implication of propriety or coyness.

Usage

The adverb "demurely" describes how an action is performed—specifically with a quiet, reserved, and modest demeanor. It often suggests a controlled or affected shyness that is considered polite or proper.

Examples

• She smiled demurely and looked down at her hands.
• He answered the question demurely, avoiding any boastful language.
• The army girl, tall and demurely pretty, threw a quick side-glance at her.

Advanced Usage

• "To behave demurely": To act in a modest and reserved way, conforming to social expectations of propriety.
  • At the formal dinner, the guests were expected to behave demurely.
• "To speak demurely": To talk in a quiet, modest, or understated tone.
  • She spoke demurely about her achievements, giving credit to her team.

Variants and Related Words

• Demure (adjective): Reserved, modest, and shy.
  • She has a demure personality.
• Demureness (noun): The quality of being demure.
  • Her demureness was charming.

Synonyms

• Modestly
• Reservedly
• Coyly
• Primly
• Sedately

Antonyms

• Boldly
• Brazenly
• Immodestly
• Impudently

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To sit demurely": To sit in a quiet, composed, and proper manner.
  • The children sat demurely through the long ceremony.
• "A demure glance": A shy or modest look.
  • She gave him a demure glance from across the room.

Adverb

1. in a demure manner
   • the army girl, tall and demurely pretty, threw a quick side-glance at her