pudique
modest, discreet (about the body or personal matters)
adjective pü-DEEK Rare
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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