Humiliation: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is profoundly degraded or made to feel very small. It often involves a situation where someone's dignity is severely compromised, usually by others.

• His public humiliation after the scandal was hard to watch.
• She felt a deep sense of humiliation when her mistake was pointed out in front of everyone.

This word refers to a feeling of awkwardness, discomfort, or self-consciousness, usually occurring in social situations. It is often less severe than other synonyms.

• He turned red with embarrassment when he tripped in front of his classmates.
• The unexpected question from the interviewer caused her to fumble in embarrassment.

Shame is a deep feeling of guilt and regret about one's actions or behavior. It often has a moral or ethical dimension and can be long-lasting.

• The feeling of shame lingered long after he apologized for his actions.
• She couldn't shake off the shame of having hurt her friend.

Indignity is used when someone is treated with a lack of respect or in a degrading way, often in a situation where the treatment is unfair or unjust.

• She suffered the indignity of being fired in front of her colleagues.
• The indignity of the situation left him feeling deeply resentful.

This is used when someone feels deeply embarrassed or ashamed due to an action or situation. It often involves public awareness.

• She felt deep humiliation when she forgot her lines during the play.
• Losing in front of his hometown crowd was a great humiliation for the athlete.

This is more severe and often involves a loss of reputation or respect. It can imply something morally or socially wrong.

• The scandal brought disgrace upon the entire family.
• Being caught cheating was a disgrace to his career.

This is used to describe an experience that reduces someone's ego or pride in a modest or respectful way. Often without negative intentions.

• Winning the award was a humbling experience for her.
• Volunteering at the shelter was humbling and eye-opening.

This is an intense feeling of shame or embarrassment, often heightened in a very personal or sensitive situation.

• He felt deep mortification when his mother found out about his lie.
• The mistake during her speech led to hours of mortification.