Modesty is the quality of not bragging and not drawing too much attention to yourself or your body. It can refer to humble behavior or to choosing clothing and actions that are not showy or revealing.
From Latin “modestia,” meaning “moderation, sense of measure,” from “modestus,” “keeping due measure.” This comes from “modus,” meaning “measure” or “manner.”
Modesty literally grows out of the idea of ‘measuring yourself’—not shrinking, but staying within bounds. It’s interesting that many cultures link moral goodness with this idea of emotional and physical ‘not too much.’
'Modesty' has historically been applied more strictly to women and girls, policing their dress, behavior, and sexuality while men faced fewer social penalties. It has been used to justify unequal standards of acceptable behavior and appearance.
If discussing modesty, make clear whether you mean humility or style of dress, and avoid applying the concept only or primarily to women. Emphasize personal choice and cultural context rather than prescribing norms by gender.
["humility","discretion","reserve"]
When talking about modesty norms, acknowledge how women have both been constrained by and actively negotiated or reshaped these expectations in different cultures.
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