Word of the Day - 08/14/26
demure
/dɪ'mjʊr/(adj.): reserved or modest in manner
The actress wore a demure navy dress that was elegant without being flashy.
(adj.): affectedly modest or shy in a playful or provocative way
She gave him a demure smile, hinting at a mischievous secret.
Word Origin
The word 'demure' originated from the Old French 'demurer', meaning 'to remain, to stay, or to linger'. This, in turn, derived from the Latin verb 'demorari', which is composed of 'de-' (an intensive prefix) and 'mora' (meaning 'delay'). Thus, 'demure' literally meant 'to linger' or 'to dwell'. The modern sense of 'reserved, modest, or shy' likely developed from the idea of someone who remains still and quiet.
The verb 'demur', meaning 'to object or show reluctance', shares the same Old French and Latin roots ('demurer' and 'demorari'). Another related word is 'moratorium', which comes from the Latin 'moratorius' (delaying), derived from 'mora'.