Demure describes someone who is modest, reserved, and quietly well-behaved. A demure person doesn't call attention to themselves or act boldly. They speak softly, dress conservatively, and carry themselves with gentle politeness.

You might describe someone as demure if they lower their eyes when receiving a compliment, answer questions thoughtfully without showing off, or sit quietly at a formal dinner. A demure student might excel in class but never brag about their grades. A demure smile is slight and restrained, not a big, attention-grabbing grin.

The word often suggests a particular kind of feminine modesty, though it can describe anyone. There's something old-fashioned about it. In classic novels, heroines are often described as demure, sitting with their hands folded and speaking only when spoken to.

But demure isn't the same as shy or timid. A shy person might be afraid to speak up, while a demure person chooses restraint deliberately. Someone can be demure in public but confident and talkative with close friends.

Sometimes people describe behavior as demurely done, meaning it's performed with quiet modesty: She demurely accepted the award. He demurely declined to take credit for the team's success.