Shameful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shameful
[ˈʃeɪmfʊl ]
Definitions
feeling
causing or feeling shame or embarrassment; disgraceful
Synonyms
disgraceful, embarrassing, humiliating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shameful |
Used to describe an action, behavior, or event that causes one to feel guilt or regret due to its moral or ethical implications.
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| disgraceful |
Expresses strong disapproval and is used for actions or behaviors that are considered deeply dishonorable or scandalous.
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| embarrassing |
Refers to situations that cause discomfort due to awkwardness or self-consciousness.
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| humiliating |
Describes events or actions that damage someone's dignity or self-respect, making them feel ashamed and inferior.
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Examples of usage
- It was a shameful act of betrayal.
- She felt shameful for her mistake.
- His behavior was considered shameful by society.
characteristic
bringing or deserving of shame or disgrace
Synonyms
deplorable, disgraceful, dishonorable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shameful |
Used to describe something that causes feelings of shame or embarrassment, often related to moral or ethical failure.
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| disgraceful |
Used to indicate something that causes someone to lose respect or honor, usually due to unethical or unacceptable behavior.
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| dishonorable |
Used to describe actions or behaviors that are contrary to high moral standards or personal integrity, implying a loss of honor or respect.
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| deplorable |
Used to describe something that is shockingly bad or worthy of strong disapproval, often related to conditions or actions.
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Examples of usage
- The company's actions were shameful and unethical.
- The politician's behavior was considered shameful by the public.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Shame is often linked to a sense of identity, affecting self-esteem and interpersonal relationships.
- Experiencing shame can lead to defensive behaviors, where individuals may distance themselves from others to avoid feelings.
- Some psychological theories suggest that shame can motivate individuals to adhere to social norms to gain acceptance.
Literature
- In classic literature, characters often face shame as a central theme, reflecting their moral struggles.
- Shakespeare frequently explored the concept of shame, revealing how it shapes characters' actions and motivations.
- Modern authors continue to delve into shame's complexity, showing how it can drive plots and character development.
Culture
- Many cultures have rituals or practices that confront shame, helping individuals find paths to forgiveness and acceptance.
- In some societies, public displays of shame serve as a form of social control, influencing behavior through communal disapproval.
- Art and music often explore themes of shame, providing a way for creators to express and process these intense emotions.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict characters dealing with shame, portraying it as a catalyst for personal growth or conflict.
- Social media has created new arenas for shame, where public scrutiny can lead to viral shaming incidents.
- Many musicians write songs about shame, turning personal experiences into relatable narratives for their audience.
Origin of 'shameful'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'sceamu,' meaning 'a feeling of guilt or dishonor.'
- The suffix '-ful' indicates being full of, thus making 'shameful' mean full of shame.
- Related words like 'shame' have historical roots in various cultures, often connecting to ideas of honor.
The word 'shameful' originated from the Middle English word 'shamful', which meant 'disgraceful'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The term 'shameful' is derived from the word 'shame', which has roots in Old English and Germanic languages. Throughout history, the concept of shame has been intertwined with societal norms and moral values, influencing language and behavior.
See also: ashamed, shame, shamed, shamefacedly, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, shamelessness, shaming, unashamed.