Fallen: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who has lost their high position or moral integrity. Commonly used in both literal and metaphorical senses, often without strong negative emotion.

• He is a fallen hero who once was celebrated for his bravery
• The fallen leaves covered the ground in autumn

Implied for someone who has suffered a severe loss of respect or honor due to their actions. Carries a strong negative connotation.

• The politician was disgraced after the scandal was revealed
• He was a disgraced former athlete caught using steroids

Describes someone who feels deep embarrassment or guilt due to an unacceptable action, usually related to personal failure. Includes a strong negative feeling.

• She was shamed by her failure in the competition
• He felt shamed after being caught lying

Typically used in more formal or serious situations to describe someone who has lost their honor, especially in connection to ethical or moral failure.

• He dishonored his family by breaking their trust
• The soldier was dishonored and stripped of his ranks

Used to describe someone who has died in battle or due to a tragic incident, often with a sense of honor.

• The memorial commemorates the fallen soldiers of World War II

Commonly used in formal or legal contexts to refer to someone who has died. It is neutral and respectful.

• The will was read shortly after the deceased's funeral

Employed to gently indicate someone has died, often in personal or emotionally sensitive conversations.

• We lost our grandmother last year; she was a kind and loving person

Refers to someone who has died or suffered greatly for a cause, often religious or political, and is seen as a hero because of it.

• Joan of Arc is remembered as a martyr who fought for her beliefs