Mortification: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is typically used to describe a deep and personal feeling of shame or embarrassment, often due to one's own actions or failures.

• She felt a deep mortification when she realized her mistake in the presentation.
• The public rejection resulted in his mortification.

This word is used in less severe contexts to describe a feeling of awkwardness or self-consciousness in social situations.

• Tripping in front of the whole class was a minor embarrassment for him.
• She turned red with embarrassment when her crush found out she liked him.

This word implies a feeling of extreme embarrassment and loss of dignity, often inflicted by someone else. It has a very negative connotation.

• Being publicly scolded by the manager was a humiliation he could never forget.
• The team suffered the humiliation of a crushing defeat.

This word describes a feeling of guilt or regret following a perceived wrongdoing or failure. It can be used in less intense or more personal contexts, and often implies a moral judgment.

• He felt shame for lying to his parents.
• There was a sense of shame in her voice as she admitted her mistake.

This word is often used in serious contexts where there is a loss of honor, respect, or reputation due to wrongdoing or failure. It carries a strong, negative connotation.

• The politician resigned in disgrace after the scandal.
• Cheating in the competition brought great disgrace to the athlete.

Used to describe a strong feeling of embarrassment or shame, often resulting from a humiliating experience.

• She felt a deep sense of mortification when she realized her mistake in front of the entire class.
• The mortification was clear on his face after he tripped on the stage.

Refers to the act of making someone feel ashamed or embarrassed, often publicly. Typically carries a negative connotation.

• Social shaming has become more prevalent with the rise of social media.
• He was subjected to public shaming for his unethical behavior.

Used to describe the state of feeling ashamed and foolish, often as a result of being degraded in the eyes of others. Often has a negative connotation.

• The employee faced public humiliation after being reprimanded in front of his colleagues.
• Losing the match in such an embarrassing way was a major humiliation for the team.

Often used in a religious or moral context to describe self-punishment or an act of devotion to show repentance for wrongdoing.

• He decided to fast for a week as penance for his mistakes.
• She spent hours volunteering at the shelter as a form of penance.

Refers to training someone to follow rules or a code of behavior, often through punishment and instruction.

• The teacher believes in strict discipline to maintain order in the classroom.
• Athletes need to have a lot of discipline to succeed in their sport.