Humiliated: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone feels completely belittled and their dignity is damaged, often by someone else. It's a very strong and painful feeling.

• She felt humiliated when her mistake was pointed out in front of everyone

Used when someone feels uncomfortable or awkward, often in social situations and usually over something minor or trivial.

• She was embarrassed when she forgot her lines during the play

Used when someone feels regret for something they have done wrong. There is a sense of personal guilt and remorse.

• He was ashamed of lying to his friends

Used when someone feels extreme embarrassment or shame, often to the point where they wish they could disappear.

• He was mortified when he realized he had called his boss the wrong name

Used when someone has lost respect or honor, often publicly. It usually implies a severe loss of reputation.

• The politician was disgraced after the corruption scandal was revealed

This term is used when someone feels a deep sense of shame or disgrace, often publicly. It usually implies a serious emotional impact.

• He felt humiliated after being scolded in front of the whole class.
• She was humiliated when her private emails were shared online.

Shame is used when someone feels a deep sense of guilt or disgrace, usually in a moral or ethical context. It often involves self-reproach.

• He was filled with shame after lying to his best friend.
• She couldn't hide her shame after failing to uphold the promise.

Embarrass is suitable for less severe situations where someone feels awkward, uncomfortable, or self-conscious, often in a social setting.

• I didn't mean to embarrass you by pointing out the mistake.
• She was embarrassed when she realized she had been talking to the wrong person.

Degrade is typically used in situations where someone or something is being lowered in dignity, value, or quality. It can apply to both people and things.

• The boss's constant criticism began to degrade her self-esteem.
• The pollution will degrade the quality of water in the river.

Mock is used when someone is making fun of another person, often in a mean or cruel way. It involves sarcasm or ridicule and carries a negative implication.

• They mocked his accent, making him feel isolated from the group.
• The comedian often mock celebrities during his performances.