Modest

“humble, moderate” — Embodies virtues of humility and moderation

American origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#737US 2023

1.5kBirths / yr

→Stable

65All-time births

📅 Since 191100

How to pronounce Modest

MAH·dust

/ˈmɑ.dəst/ · stress on MAH · 2 syllables

“humble, moderate”

Embodies virtues of humility and moderation · American origin

What does Modest mean and where does it come from?

Modest is primarily recognized as an adjective in English but has been used as a feminine name in modern contexts, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom. The name embodies virtues of humility and moderation. While not extremely common as a name, the use of 'Modest' may reflect conte

Cultural significance

Modest has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of humble, moderate.

Peak popularity

Reached #2180 in 1911 — currently #737 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Modest?

Modest works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Modest Grace

How popular is Modest right now?

Holding steady — currently #737 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#737 · Top 0.54%

1915

1920

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#737	1,463	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#742	1,443	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#747	1,413	▲ up 4474 · +28160% births
1920	#5221	5	▼ down 1898 · -37% births
1915	#3323	8	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Modest

Best Year2023Rank #737

Peak Count1,463

Average Rank#2154

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1915 - 20235 years

The story of Modest

Modest entered American naming records in 1911 and has been in use for over 113 years. With 65 total births recorded, Modest remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3323 in 1915 to #737 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Modest in 1911:

Mary Helen Margaret Dorothy Ruth

💎Modest has only 65 total recorded births since 1911 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Modest?

Common

ModModieModyOdest

What names sound and feel like Modest?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Modest also consider these

Modell

American · Derived from the

Modesty

American · English

Forest

American · Of the woods,

Modene

American · English

Honest

English · truthful, sincere

Forrest

USA · English

Selest

American · Celestial, heavenly

Mozell

American · a variant of

How is Modest written in other languages?

Модест

Russian

What are the boy versions of Modest?

Modeste FRENCH Modestine FRENCH Modesta LATE ROMAN Modesta SPANISH

Common questions about the name Modest

What does the name Modest mean?

Modest means "humble, moderate" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Modest?

Modest is currently ranked #737 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Modest?

Modest originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Modest?

Modest is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 D AH0 S T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

What are good nicknames for Modest?

Modest naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.