Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Humility”
The biblical word “Humility” traces back to Greek (tapeinosis (Greek)), where it meant “Lowliness, meekness, modesty before God”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “Modest estimate of one's own worth; freedom from pride”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Greektapeinosis (Greek)Lowliness, meekness, modesty before God
Greek tapeinosis from tapeinoo (to humble, make low). Jesus uses tapeinophrosyne (humility of mind) in Matt 18:4; Paul exhorts humility in Eph 4:2 and Col 3:12.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinhumilitasVoluntary abasement, recognition of dependence on God
Latin humilitas from humilis (lowly, on the ground, from humus = earth). Central virtue in monastic spirituality; Benedict emphasizes humility as foundation of monastic life.
Modern English
EnglishhumilityModest estimate of one's own worth; freedom from pride
From Old French humilite < Latin humilitas. Since 12c in English as virtue opposite to pride.