Humble

Humble is an adjective meaning having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's importance; not proud or arrogant. It can describe a person who is unassuming and respectful toward others, or the tone of a statement that downplays personal achievements. As a verb, humble can mean to lower someone’s status or to cause someone to feel less pride, as in “to humble the victor.” A related noun is humility, which denotes the quality of being modest and open to others.

The term originates from Old French humble, from Latin humilis “ground, from the earth,” reflecting a sense of being low or near the ground. Its usage extends to phrases such as humble beginnings or a humble abode, and it contrasts with words like arrogant or boastful. The adverb form is humbly, and the modern colloquial blend humblebrag combines humility with self-promotion.

In many religious and ethical traditions, humility is considered a virtue. It is valued as a foundation for cooperation, service, and moral conduct, and is often linked to self-awareness and respect for others. Different traditions emphasize humility in different ways, but common themes include acknowledging limitations, recognizing the worth of others, and avoiding pride or self-centeredness. In contemporary discourse, humility is discussed in contexts such as leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Cautions accompany the term, as some uses—such as “humblebrag”—can be seen as insincere attempts at self-promotion. Psychologically, humility is sometimes distinguished from low self-esteem, focusing instead on a balanced appraisal of one’s strengths and limitations.