Ashamed

Definition

Ashamed is an adjective that describes a feeling of guilt, embarrassment, or regret, usually due to having done something wrong or considered socially unacceptable.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈʃeɪmd/
• Respelling: uh-SHAYMD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈʃeɪmd/
• Respelling: uh-SHAYMD

The pronunciation of "ashamed" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "ashamed" comes from the Old English word "ascamian," meaning "to feel shame." It is derived from "shame," with the prefix "a-" added to indicate a state or condition, evolving into the meaning of feeling embarrassed or remorseful.

Derivatives

• Shame (noun)
• Ashamedly (adverb)
• Unashamed (adjective)
• Shameful (adjective)
• Shameless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Embarrassed
• Guilty
• Regretful

Antonyms

• Proud
• Confident
• Unashamed

Usage

The term "ashamed" is used to express a sense of embarrassment or guilt, as in "He felt ashamed for forgetting his friend’s birthday." It is often associated with situations where a person feels remorseful or embarrassed by their actions or behavior.

Related Terms

• Embarrassment: A feeling of self-consciousness or shame.
• Remorse: A feeling of regret or sorrow for one's actions.
• Guilt: A feeling of responsibility or regret for an offense or wrongdoing.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Feeling guilt or embarrassment about an action or behavior: Used to describe a sense of personal regret or self-consciousness due to a perceived fault or mistake.
  • Example: "She was ashamed of lying to her friend."
• Feeling remorseful about a situation or association: Refers to the feeling of regret or disapproval of a situation one is involved in.
  • Example: "He felt ashamed of the company’s unethical practices."