Langimage
English

humbling

|hum-bling|

B2

/ˈhʌm.blɪŋ/

(humble)

modest

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleComparativeSuperlativeNounNounAdverb
humblehumbleshumbledhumbledhumblinghumblerhumblesthumilityhumblenesshumbly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'humble' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'humilis,' where 'humus' meant 'ground.'

Historical Evolution

'humilis' transformed into the Old French word 'humble,' and eventually became the modern English word 'humble.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'lowly or insignificant,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'modest or unassuming.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

present participle of 'humble'.

The experience was humbling him.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

causing someone to feel less important or proud.

Winning the award was a humbling experience.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45