Definition

Noun: 1. The trait of behaving with reserve and decorum: The quality of being modest, reserved, and shy in a polite and proper way. 2. The affectation of being demure in a provocative way: A manner of behaving that is outwardly modest or shy but is often intended to be alluring or is not sincere.

Usage

Demureness describes a person's manner or behavior. It can be a genuine, positive character trait of quiet modesty. However, it can also describe a false or exaggerated display of modesty, often with a hint of coyness or playful pretense.

Examples

• Her natural demureness made her hesitant to speak in large groups.
• The actress captured the character's demureness perfectly, with downcast eyes and a soft voice.
• There was a hint of playful demureness in her smile that suggested she wasn't as shy as she appeared.

Advanced Usage

• "An air of demureness": A noticeable manner or impression of being demure.
  • She maintained an air of demureness throughout the interview, carefully considering each question before answering.

Variants and Related Words

• Demure (adj): Modest, reserved, and shy. "She gave a demure nod of agreement."
• Demurely (adv): In a demure manner. "She smiled demurely from behind her fan."

Synonyms

• Modesty
• Reserve
• Shyness
• Coyness (especially for the affected sense)
• Reticence

Antonyms

• Boldness
• Immodesty
• Forwardness
• Brashness

Noun

1. the affectation of being demure in a provocative way
2. the trait of behaving with reserve and decorum