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pudique

modest, discreet (about the body or personal matters)

adjective pü-DEEK Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Personality

Origin: Latin pudicus, from pudor (shame, modesty)

Usage Note

Pudique suggests a reserved, dignified modesty rather than prudishness — un geste pudique shields without being repressive. It is the same form for masculine and feminine. The noun pudeur (modesty, sense of decency) is widely used: par pudeur, meaning out of delicacy or discretion. Impudique is the antonym.

Examples

"Elle a répondu d'un sourire pudique."

Natural Translation

She replied with a modest smile.

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