Shame

Definition

The word "shame" refers to a feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior (noun), or to make someone feel embarrassed or humiliated (verb).

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃeɪm/
• Respelling: SHAYM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃeɪm/
• Respelling: SHAYM

Etymology

The word "shame" originates from Old English "sceamu," meaning "disgrace or dishonor," which is related to Proto-Germanic "*skamo" and Proto-Indo-European "*skem-," meaning "to cover or hide." It has retained its meaning of emotional discomfort or embarrassment over time.

Derivatives

• Shameful (adjective)
• Shameless (adjective)
• Shamed (adjective)
• Shamefully (adverb)
• Shaming (verb)

Synonyms

• Humiliation
• Embarrassment
• Disgrace

Antonyms

• Pride
• Honor
• Respect

Usage

The term "shame" is often used in contexts relating to emotional responses to actions or societal judgments. Examples: "He felt deep shame for his mistake," and "They tried to shame her into apologizing."

Related Terms

• Embarrassment: A less intense feeling of discomfort or awkwardness.
• Guilt: A feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing.
• Dishonor: Loss of respect or reputation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of humiliation or distress: Refers to an emotional response to one's own or others' actions perceived as wrong or foolish.
  • Example: "Her face turned red with shame after the mistake."
• A regrettable or unfortunate situation: Used to express pity or disappointment.
  • Example: "It's a shame that he couldn’t attend the event."

Verb

• To cause someone to feel embarrassed or humiliated: Refers to actions intended to induce feelings of guilt or disgrace.
  • Example: "They tried to shame him into changing his behavior."
• To criticize or condemn publicly: Indicates an act of reproach often used in societal or public contexts.
  • Example: "The group sought to shame companies polluting the environment."