Shameful: meaning, definitions and examples

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shameful

 

[หˆสƒeษชmfสŠl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

causing or feeling shame or embarrassment; disgraceful

Synonyms

disgraceful, embarrassing, humiliating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • The company's treatment of its workers was nothing short of shameful
  • It was shameful how he lied to his best friend
disgraceful

Expresses strong disapproval and is used for actions or behaviors that are considered deeply dishonorable or scandalous.

  • His corrupt practices were disgraceful for the whole organization
  • It was disgraceful how they abandoned their responsibilities
embarrassing

Refers to situations that cause discomfort due to awkwardness or self-consciousness.

  • It was embarrassing when she tripped on stage
  • I find it embarrassing to sing in front of people
humiliating

Describes events or actions that damage someone's dignity or self-respect, making them feel ashamed and inferior.

  • It was humiliating to be scolded in front of the entire class
  • Losing the game in front of his friends was a humiliating experience

Examples of usage

  • It was a shameful act of betrayal.
  • She felt shameful for her mistake.
  • His behavior was considered shameful by society.
Context #2 | Adjective

characteristic

bringing or deserving of shame or disgrace

Synonyms

deplorable, disgraceful, dishonorable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shameful

Used to describe something that causes feelings of shame or embarrassment, often related to moral or ethical failure.

  • He was involved in a shameful scandal that ruined his career
disgraceful

Used to indicate something that causes someone to lose respect or honor, usually due to unethical or unacceptable behavior.

  • Cheating in the competition was disgraceful and tarnished the sportsmanship spirit
dishonorable

Used to describe actions or behaviors that are contrary to high moral standards or personal integrity, implying a loss of honor or respect.

  • The officer was discharged for dishonorable conduct in the line of duty
deplorable

Used to describe something that is shockingly bad or worthy of strong disapproval, often related to conditions or actions.

  • The living conditions in the refugee camp were absolutely deplorable

Examples of usage

  • The company's actions were shameful and unethical.
  • The politician's behavior was considered shameful by the public.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "shameful" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น vergonhoso

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคถเคฐเฅเคฎเคจเคพเค•

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช beschรคmend

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ memalukan

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณะฐะฝะตะฑะฝะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ haniebny

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๆฅใšใ‹ใ—ใ„

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท honteux

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ vergonzoso

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท utanรง verici

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋ถ€๋„๋Ÿฌ์šด

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ูุฎุฒู

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hanebnรฝ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ hanebnรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅฏ่€ป็š„

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ sramoten

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ skammarfullur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ าฑัั‚ั‚ั‹

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒจแƒ”แƒฃแƒ แƒแƒชแƒฎแƒ›แƒงแƒแƒคแƒ”แƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ utancverici

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ vergonzoso

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,195, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.