Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪˈmɒdɪsti/

Definitions

• The quality or state of being immodest; lack of modesty, especially in appearance or behavior.
• Excessive pride or arrogance that leads to an undue display of one's abilities or achievements.
• The act of being shameless or lacking in proper restraint, especially in a manner that attracts inappropriate attention.

Usage Examples

• "Her immodesty was evident in the way she flaunted her success at every opportunity."
• "The immodesty of his speech was off-putting to the audience, as it bordered on arrogance."
• "In some cultures, immodesty is seen as a sign of disrespect to others."

Etymology

The word "immodesty" originates from the Latin "immodestus," meaning "not moderate" or "indecent." The term first appeared in the English language around the 16th century, combining the prefix "im-" (meaning "not") with "modesty" (derived from the Latin "modestia"), which refers to propriety or moderation. Over time, "immodesty" has come to denote a lack of restraint in behavior or appearance, often viewed negatively in social and cultural contexts.

Synonyms

• Arrogance
• Shamelessness
• Boldness
• Excessiveness
• Imprudence

Antonyms

• Modesty
• Humility
• Reserve
• Discretion
• Subdued

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

While "immodesty" is generally pronounced consistently in English-speaking regions, slight variations may occur depending on regional accents. For instance, in British English, the pronunciation may emphasize the second syllable more strongly, while in American English, the stress is typically placed on the first syllable.

Historical Usage

Historically, "immodesty" was a term used to criticize individuals who displayed behavior or appearances considered inappropriate or shameful by societal standards. During the 18th and 19th centuries, immodesty in women, in particular, was often condemned, as modesty was associated with virtue and decorum. The term gradually evolved to also describe immoderate displays of wealth, success, or other attributes that might be considered boastful or excessive.

Cultural Nuances

The perception of immodesty varies greatly across cultures. In some conservative societies, particularly those with strong religious or moral codes, immodesty is often seen as a serious flaw. In more liberal or individualistic cultures, however, immodesty may be tolerated or even encouraged, especially when it is viewed as self-empowerment or a challenge to social norms. What is considered immodest can be highly context-dependent, often tied to issues of gender, class, and cultural values.

More Information

Immodesty is often seen as a social transgression, but its interpretation is changing in many societies. What may once have been deemed improper behavior, such as bold expressions of wealth or success, may now be viewed as a legitimate form of self-expression. The shifting boundaries of what constitutes immodesty reflect broader cultural changes related to personal identity, gender roles, and the values placed on modesty in both public and private life.