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Dishonored Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dishonored

[dɪsˈɒnəd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

action

To bring shame or disgrace upon; to fail to uphold a promise or obligation.

Synonyms

disgrace, humiliate, shame.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dishonored

Use in formal or serious situations where someone's reputation has been damaged due to unethical or immoral actions.

  • The soldier was dishonored for abandoning his post
  • The CEO felt dishonored after the scandal
disgrace

Use in situations where someone or something has lost respect or standing due to actions that are considered shameful. Often has a strong negative connotation.

  • Getting arrested was a disgrace to the family
  • The athlete's doping scandal brought disgrace to the sport
shame

Use in situations where someone feels guilty or regretful for their actions. Often internalized, but can also be caused by others.

  • He couldn't escape the shame of his past mistakes
  • She was filled with shame after lying to her parents
humiliate

Used when someone makes another person feel deeply ashamed and embarrassed, often in public. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • She felt humiliated after being laughed at during her presentation
  • The coach humiliated the player by criticizing him in front of the whole team

Examples of usage

  • He dishonored his family by committing a crime.
  • She dishonored her commitment by not showing up to the meeting.
Context #2 | Verb

game

To lose honor or prestige in a video game by failing to complete objectives without being detected.

Synonyms

disgraced, humiliated, shamed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dishonored

Used when someone has lost respect or a good reputation due to their actions. Often implicates a moral or ethical failing.

  • He felt dishonored when the scandal became public.
  • The soldier was dishonored for his betrayal.
disgraced

Refers to someone who has lost standing or respect, often after being involved in a scandal or unethical behavior. It implies a fall from a higher status.

  • The disgraced politician resigned from office.
  • She was disgraced when her fraudulent activities came to light.
shamed

Implies that someone has been made to feel shame or guilt due to their actions, often publicly. This term can have a broad range of uses, including moral and social contexts.

  • She was publicly shamed for her comments on social media.
  • They tried to shame him into confessing.
humiliated

Describes a situation where someone feels extreme embarrassment or shame, often in public. It emphasizes the emotional impact on the person.

  • He was humiliated in front of his colleagues.
  • The athlete felt humiliated after failing the drug test.

Examples of usage

  • If you get caught by the guards, you will be dishonored.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • 'Dishonored' is the title of a popular video game series where players navigate a world filled with intrigue and moral choices.
  • In Shakespeare's works, themes of honor and dishonor frequently appear, illustrating societal expectations and personal integrity.
  • Many novels explore the consequences of dishonor, often leading characters on journeys of redemption and self-discovery.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being dishonored can lead to shame and guilt, affecting a person's mental health and relationships.
  • Research indicates that honor cultures value reputation highly, where being dishonored can have serious social implications.
  • Individuals who perceive themselves as dishonored may experience a decline in self-esteem and an increase in stress.

Pop Culture

  • Various films and series, particularly those in the action and drama genres, depict characters grappling with issues of honor and dishonor.
  • Famous historical figures, like samurais in Japanese history, often faced dishonor through loss of status or failure in duty.
  • Social media has created new contexts for dishonor, as actions can quickly tarnish reputations in the public eye.

History

  • In many ancient societies, dishonor could lead to public shame, ostracization, or more severe consequences, including punishment or execution.
  • The concept of dishonor has evolved over centuries, shifting from strict code of conduct related to warriors and nobility to broader societal norms.
  • In certain cultures, dishonoring oneself or one's family can have long-lasting impacts that affect generations.

Origin of 'dishonored'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'not,' combined with 'honor,' which means to have respect or admiration.
  • It has been in use since the late Middle Ages, reflecting a shift in social values about honor and reputation.
  • Originally, 'dishonor' was used mainly in contexts of nobility and chivalry, where honor was paramount.

The word 'dishonored' originated from the combination of 'dis-' meaning 'lack of' and 'honored' meaning 'regarded with great respect or admiration'. It conveys the idea of losing respect or esteem. The concept of dishonor has been prevalent throughout history in various cultures, where honor and reputation were highly valued. In modern usage, 'dishonored' is commonly associated with betrayal, shame, or failure to meet expectations.

See also: dishonor, dishonorable, dishonorably, honorable, honorably, honored, honorees, honoring, honors, unhonored.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,324, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.