Stigma: meaning, definitions and examples

When discussing a negative mark or label associated with a particular condition or characteristic, often related to social issues.

• There is still a stigma attached to mental health issues.
• The stigma around seeking therapy is slowly decreasing.

When referring to a feeling of guilt, embarrassment, or regret due to one's actions or circumstances. Can be used broadly in personal and public contexts.

• He felt deep shame after lying to his friends.
• There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it.

To describe a situation or action that causes public shame or dishonor, often due to moral or ethical failing. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• The politician's actions brought disgrace to his family.
• Being fired for theft was a complete disgrace.

Primarily used when referring to a small mark that spoils the appearance of something, especially on the skin.

• She was upset about the blemish on her face before the interview.
• The car had a small blemish on the paint.

Used when referring to a strong feeling of disapproval that society has about something, especially when this unfairly prevents someone from being openly accepted.

• The stigma surrounding mental health issues often prevents people from seeking help
• / There is still a significant stigma attached to being an ex-convict

Refers to being well known for something bad or evil, often used to describe historical figures or notorious events.

• The attack on Pearl Harbor will always be a day that lives in infamy
• / The leader's reign is remembered with infamy due to the mass atrocities committed

Indicates the loss of respect or honor because of something considered shameful, often used in personal or professional situations.

• His involvement in the scandal brought great disgrace to his family
• / Losing the championship in such a manner was a disgrace for the athlete

Used to express disapproval or disappointment, often in a personal relationship or minor social context.

• She looked at him with reproach for breaking his promise
• / His actions were met with reproach from his colleagues

In a botanical context, this word refers to the sticky tip of the pistil where pollen lands during the process of pollination.

• The pollen grains adhere to the stigma of the flower.
• The stigma plays a crucial role in the fertilization process.

This word is specific to botany and refers to the female reproductive part of a flower, including the ovary, style, and stigma.

• The pistil is an integral part of a flower's reproductive system.
• Pollination occurs when pollen lands on the stigma of the pistil.

This is a general term used in biological or medical contexts to refer to the organs involved in female reproduction, such as ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina.

• The research focused on the development and health of the female reproductive organs.
• Certain diseases can affect the female reproductive organs.