humble
Definitions
Having or showing a modest view of one's own importance; not proud.
谦逊的，谦卑的，不自大的。
Of low rank, modest in size or quality; ordinary.
（地位、规模）卑微的，简陋的，普通的。
To lower someone (or oneself) in pride or status; to make humble.
使谦卑；挫某人的傲气；使（自己）放低姿态。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin humilis, 'low, on the ground' (humus = earth). The physical idea of being low to the ground became the moral idea of modesty: a humble person doesn't raise themselves above others. The same lowness gives the senses 'simple/modest' (a humble home) and the verb 'to bring low.'
Root hum still carries 46 more wordsWhy It Means This
Humble's whole family is built on physical lowness. humilis literally put you on the ground; over time the bodily posture of bowing low became the virtue of not overrating yourself. That is why 'humble' can describe a person (modest), a thing (a humble cottage), and an action (to humble a rival) — all are some version of 'kept low.'
Common Collocations
- 1.humble beginnings卑微的出身
- 2.remain humble保持谦逊
- 3.humble opinion拙见（个人浅见）
- 4.eat humble pielow姿态认错
Example Sentences
- 1.
Despite his fame, he stayed remarkably humble about his success.
- 2.
She grew up in a humble home with very little money.
- 3.
The unexpected defeat humbled the championship team.
Easily Confused
humble vs modest — Both downplay one's own importance, but modest is mainly about not boasting (modest about her grades), while humble carries a deeper sense of low status or submission, and can describe things (a humble meal). You can be quietly modest; being humble can also mean knowing your small place.