What Demure Mean: Definition, Usage, and Synonyms

Definition and usage

• Reserved and modest: The demure definition primarily includes being reserved, modest, and shy
• Quiet and polite: What demure mean encompasses someone who is quiet, polite, and not attracting or demanding attention
• Often applied to women: The meaning of demure is frequently used to describe women or feminine behavior
• Slight shift in meaning: Over nearly seven centuries of use, what demure mean has only shifted slightly from describing genuine modesty to sometimes implying affected modesty

Synonyms and related words

• Common synonyms: To understand what demure mean, consider these synonyms: Shy, reserved, modest, retiring, reticent, unassuming, diffident
• Behavioral descriptors: The demure definition includes: Quiet, meek, coy, bashful, timid, gentle
• Appearance-related: The meaning of demure can also relate to appearance: Prim, proper, decorous

Antonyms and contrasts

• Opposite traits: Contrasting what demure mean: Bold, forward, aggressive, confrontational
• Contrasting behaviors: Opposite to the demure definition: Loud, boisterous, outgoing, assertive, confident
• Style contrasts: Contrasting the meaning of demure in style: Flamboyant, outspoken, impudent

Usage in context

• Social behavior: What demure mean in social settings: a person who is socially reserved and avoids drawing attention to themselves
• Fashion and appearance: The demure definition in fashion refers to modest dress or a understated style that doesn't reveal much of the body
• Literary use: The meaning of demure in literature often describes characters with a quiet, modest demeanor

Differences from similar concepts

• Demure vs. introverted:
  • What demure mean relates more to outward behavior and appearance
  • Introverted relates to internal personality traits and energy sources
• Demure vs. bashful:
  • The demure definition is generally seen as a positive attribute, especially for women
  • Bashful can have a somewhat negative connotation of excessive shyness

Etymology and history

• Origin: The exact origin of what demure mean is obscure, but it entered English around the time of Norman influence
• First recorded use: The Oxford English Dictionary dates the first use of the demure definition to 1588

FAQ

What does demure mean?

Demure means reserved, modest, and shy. It typically describes a person's behavior or appearance, often referring to someone who is quiet, polite, and not attracting attention. The demure definition is commonly used to describe women.

How has the meaning of demure changed over time?

The meaning of demure has only shifted slightly over nearly seven centuries of use. It has evolved from describing genuine modesty to sometimes implying affected modesty. However, the core demure definition of being reserved and modest has remained largely consistent.

What are some synonyms for demure?

Common synonyms that help explain what demure means include shy, reserved, modest, retiring, reticent, unassuming, and diffident. Other related words that capture the demure definition are quiet, meek, coy, bashful, timid, and gentle.

How is the word demure used in fashion and appearance?

In fashion and appearance, the meaning of demure refers to modest dress or an understated style that doesn't reveal much of the body. It describes clothing and looks that are prim, proper, and decorous, aligning with the overall demure definition of being reserved and modest.

Is being demure considered positive or negative?

Generally, what demure means is seen as a positive attribute, especially for women. Unlike similar concepts such as bashful, which can have a somewhat negative connotation of excessive shyness, the demure definition is typically viewed favorably in social contexts.