Ashamed: meaning, definitions and examples

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ashamed

[ əˈʃeɪmd ]

Adjective

Oxford 3000

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling

Feeling shame or guilt; embarrassed or guilty because of one's actions, characteristics, or associations.

Synonyms

embarrassed, guilty, humiliated, remorseful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ashamed	Used when someone feels bad about something they did, especially if it goes against their own moral values. She felt ashamed of lying to her best friend He was ashamed of his past mistakes
embarrassed	Appropriate for situations where someone feels awkward or uncomfortable, often in social settings. She was embarrassed when she tripped in front of everyone He looked embarrassed when his mother showed his baby pictures
guilty	Used when someone feels they have done something wrong and this is often connected to a sense of responsibility or blame. He felt guilty for breaking the vase She was guilty about missing her friend's birthday party
humiliated	Used when someone feels a strong sense of shame or shamefulness, often caused by another person's actions. It has a negative connotation. He felt humiliated when his boss scolded him in front of his colleagues She was humiliated by the public ridicule
remorseful	Used when someone feels a deep regret or sorrow for something they have done wrong. He was genuinely remorseful after cheating on the exam She felt remorseful for hurting her friend's feelings

Examples of usage

He felt ashamed of his behavior at the party.
She was ashamed of her past mistakes.
They were ashamed to admit their failure.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

appearance

Showing a consciousness of guilt or disgrace.

Synonyms

embarrassed, guilty, remorseful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ashamed	When someone feels bad about something they did wrong, especially when they think others might judge them. He felt ashamed for lying to his friends. She was ashamed of her poor exam results.
guilty	When someone feels responsible for a mistake or wrongdoing, especially when they believe they have hurt someone. He felt guilty for breaking his sister’s toy. She felt guilty about missing her best friend’s wedding.
embarrassed	When someone feels awkward or uncomfortable because of a situation, often involving themselves or others noticing it. She was embarrassed when she forgot her lines on stage. He felt embarrassed after spilling coffee on his shirt during the meeting.
remorseful	When someone deeply regrets their actions and feels a strong desire to make amends or apologize. He was remorseful for his harsh words during the argument. She felt remorseful for her past behavior and tried to be a better person.

Examples of usage

He had an ashamed look on his face.
She avoided eye contact, feeling ashamed.

Translations

Translations of the word "ashamed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 envergonhado

🇮🇳 शर्मिंदा (sharminda)

🇩🇪 beschämt

🇮🇩 malu

🇺🇦 засоромлений

🇵🇱 zawstydzony

🇯🇵 恥ずかしい (hazukashii)

🇫🇷 honteux

🇪🇸 avergonzado

🇹🇷 utanmış

🇰🇷 부끄러운 (bukkeureoun)

🇸🇦 خجلان (khajlan)

🇨🇿 zahanbený

🇸🇰 zahanbený

🇨🇳 羞愧的 (xiūkuì de)

🇸🇮 sramoten

🇮🇸 skammast

🇰🇿 ұялған (uialan)

🇬🇪 შერცხვენილი (sherts'qvenili)

🇦🇿 utanan

🇲🇽 avergonzado

Etymology

The word 'ashamed' originated from the Old English word 'asceamian', which means 'feel shame, experience shame'. It has been in use since the 13th century, evolving over time to its current form and usage in the English language. The concept of shame and feeling ashamed has been a part of human emotions and societal norms throughout history, influencing behavior and relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,795 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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