Definition of demure

Short definition: The word demure means behaving in a quiet, modest, and polite way, often showing shyness without being rude or cold. People use it to describe someone whose soft manners and calm attitude make them seem graceful and respectful in social situations.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word demure? The word demure is often used to describe someone who appears quiet, gentle, and a little shy, especially in the way they behave around others. But demure is not only about being silent—it can also be about choosing to stay calm, polite, and reserved in situations where others might be loud or attention-seeking. In everyday life, demure is usually said with a warm tone, describing a kind of softness in personality that feels graceful and respectful. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed and natural way, with explanations that feel human instead of stiff like a textbook.

Adjective forms: demure, demurer, demurest
Related: demurely adv., demureness n.
Syllable: de-mure

1. Quiet, modest, and a little shy in behavior.

   In its most common meaning, demure describes someone who behaves in a gentle and reserved way. They don’t try to stand out or draw attention to themselves, but instead choose to stay calm and polite. This kind of behavior often feels warm and respectful, especially in social situations.

   She gave a demure smile, speaking softly even when everyone else was being loud.
   His demure manner made people feel comfortable around him.
   At the party, she stayed demure, enjoying the moment without trying to be the center of attention.

   Synonyms: modest, shy, reserved, gentle, quiet, soft-spoken, polite, well-mannered, humble, mild, calm, understated
   Antonyms: bold, loud, confident, flashy, outgoing, attention-seeking, outspoken, dramatic, aggressive, showy, assertive, noisy

2. Showing good manners and graceful self-control.

   Demure can also describe someone who knows how to behave properly in different situations. It’s not only about being quiet, but about choosing words and actions carefully. In this sense, demure feels connected to elegance and respect.

   She answered the question in a demure way, choosing her words thoughtfully.
   His demure behavior impressed everyone at the formal dinner.
   Even when upset, she stayed demure, keeping her emotions under control.

   Synonyms: polite, well-behaved, graceful, respectful, courteous, refined, elegant, calm-mannered, gentle-mannered, proper, considerate, composed
   Antonyms: rude, careless, disrespectful, loud-mouthed, wild, impolite, crude, reckless, uncontrolled, aggressive, harsh, unrefined

3. Appearing innocent or modest on purpose.

   Sometimes demure describes an appearance that looks modest or shy on the surface, even if the person inside feels confident. In this way, demure can be a style of expression— choosing to look gentle instead of bold.

   She put on a demure expression, even though she felt proud of herself.
   His demure tone hid how excited he really was.
   The actress played the role with a demure charm, making the character feel sweet and gentle.

   Synonyms: modest-looking, shy-seeming, gentle-faced, innocent-looking, soft in style, understated look, quiet charm, mild appearance, simple style, graceful look, subtle presence, soft manner
   Antonyms: flashy look, bold style, confident display, dramatic appearance, loud fashion, striking manner, showy style, strong presence, aggressive look, intense style, loud image, powerful display

4. A personality style that feels calm and comforting.

   People sometimes use demure to describe a personality that feels peaceful. Being demure can make others feel relaxed, because there is no pressure to compete or impress. It creates a soft and friendly atmosphere.

   Her demure personality made long conversations feel easy and natural.
   He liked her demure way of speaking, which always felt calm and kind.
   The teacher’s demure style helped students feel safe asking questions.

   Synonyms: gentle personality, calm nature, soft character, peaceful manner, mild presence, quiet charm, kind style, warm behavior, soothing presence, friendly calmness, relaxed nature, gentle spirit
   Antonyms: intense personality, loud nature, aggressive manner, dominant presence, forceful style, harsh behavior, stressful attitude, controlling manner, pushy style, overpowering presence, noisy character, sharp personality

5. A word often used to describe elegance in simplicity.

   In fashion and writing, demure is often used to describe a style that is simple but elegant. It suggests beauty that doesn’t need to shout. In this sense, demure becomes a compliment for quiet confidence and natural grace.

   Her dress was simple but demure, making her look elegant without being flashy.
   The design felt demure, proving that less can truly be more.
   He admired her demure style, which always felt classy and timeless.

   Synonyms: simple elegance, quiet beauty, subtle charm, graceful simplicity, understated style, classic look, refined simplicity, soft elegance, tasteful design, calm beauty, gentle grace, clean style
   Antonyms: flashy style, loud fashion, over-the-top look, dramatic design, bold style, heavy decoration, showy appearance, extravagant look, excessive style, attention-grabbing fashion, loud design, striking excess