I. də̇ˈmyu̇(ə)r, dēˈ-, -u̇ə adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English, perhaps from Middle French demorer, demourer to linger, wait
1. : marked by quiet modesty, sedate reserve, restraint, or sobriety : not demanding attention : retiring , shy
by hustling male assistants very energetic and rapid, instead of by demure anemic virgins — Arnold Bennett
the recurring flash of mischief in its demure and marvelously dainty humor — Times Literary Supplement
2. : affectedly modest, reserved, or serious : prim , coy
had a knack of adopting a demure ingenue air — W.M.Thackeray
linen, nonchalant and swank and cut with demure and deceitful simplicity — Lois Long
Synonyms: see decorous
II. intransitive verb
obsolete : to look demurely