demure

/dɪˈmjʊə(r)/ (bre, ipa) · [dɪmjˈʊr] /dɪˈmjʊr/ (ame, ipa) · [dɪmjˈʊr] /di-ˈmyu̇r How to pronounce demure (audio)/ (ame, mw)

demure — adjective

  • demurepositive
  • more demurecomparative
  • most demuresuperlative

1. showing a calm, modest, self-controlled manner that keeps attention away from yo

1.形容詞C2
釋義

showing a calm, modest, self-controlled manner that keeps attention away from you.

例句

Beatrix gave a demure smile as the photographer moved closer.

demure + smile / expression

At dinner, Chidi stayed demure while his cousins argued loudly.

同義詞
  • modest

    'modest' is the broader everyday word; 'demure' adds quiet self-restraint in appearance or manner.

  • reserved

    'reserved' stresses emotional distance; 'demure' also suggests softness or gentleness.

  • subdued

    'subdued' can describe low energy or colour; 'demure' is more about a quietly proper manner.

反義詞
  • bold

    draws attention confidently instead of holding back.

  • flashy

    openly attention-seeking in style or behaviour.

  • outspoken

    plain and direct rather than quietly restrained.

用法筆記

Often used for a person's expression, voice, or overall manner. Distinguish from sense 2: sense 1 sounds genuinely modest, not deliberately teasing.

常見錯誤

❌The boxer made a demure entrance with fireworks.
✅The boxer made a dramatic entrance with fireworks.
💡'demure' suggests restraint and modesty, not a showy public style.

2. appearing modest or shy in a slightly teasing way to attract interest.

2.形容詞C2
釋義

appearing modest or shy in a slightly teasing way to attract interest.

例句

Ayesha gave a demure laugh, then asked if Sven was free Friday.

demure + laugh in a teasing social exchange

The actress answered the reporter with a demure shrug and a grin.

同義詞
  • coy

    very close in meaning; 'coy' is often even more openly flirtatious.

  • flirtatious

    'flirtatious' is broader and more active; 'demure' keeps a surface of modesty.

  • bashful

    'bashful' usually describes real embarrassment, not a playful act.

反義詞
  • direct

    shows interest openly instead of hinting at it.

  • matter-of-fact

    plain and practical, without any teasing effect.

  • blunt

    speaks without softness or playful modesty.

用法筆記

Usually describes a look, laugh, reply, or pose rather than a stable personality trait. Distinguish from sense 1: sense 2 suggests some conscious performance.

常見錯誤

❌The new student was too demure to answer because she felt scared.
✅The new student was too shy to answer because she felt scared.
💡if the feeling is genuine fear or embarrassment, 'shy' is better; this sense of 'demure' has a hint of performance.

3. describing clothes or styling that look neat, covered, and quietly modest.

3.形容詞C2
釋義

describing clothes or styling that look neat, covered, and quietly modest.

例句

The bride chose a demure navy dress for the temple wedding.

demure + dress for covered, modest styling

The shop window showed demure blouses with high collars and long sleeves.

同義詞
  • modest

    the broad everyday word for clothing that does not reveal much skin.

  • conservative

    stresses traditional or restrained styling more strongly than 'demure'.

  • understated

    focuses on a quiet visual effect rather than moral modesty.

反義詞
  • flashy

    made to attract attention with striking style.

  • revealing

    shows much more of the body.

  • showy

    designed to stand out rather than stay restrained.

用法筆記

Usually used for dresses, blouses, necklines, or colours, especially when the style covers the body and avoids a flashy effect. Distinguish from sense 1: this sense describes appearance, not the wearer's personality.