Definition of demure

< demur

demurrage >

de·mure    (d-myr) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:
de·mur·er, de·mur·est

1. Modest and reserved in manner or behavior.
2. Affectedly shy, modest, or reserved. See Synonyms at shy¹.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, probably from Anglo-Norman (influenced by Old French mur, meur, mature, serious), past participle of demurer, to delay, wait ; see demur

OTHER FORMS:
de·murely(Adverb), de·mureness(Noun)