embarrassment

[ em-bar-uhs-muhnt ]

noun

1. the state of being embarrassed; disconcertment; abashment.

   Synonyms: discomposure

2. an act or instance of embarrassing.
3. something that embarrasses.
4. an overwhelmingly excessive amount; overabundance:

   an embarrassment of riches.

5. the state of being in financial difficulties.
6. Medicine/Medical. impairment of functioning associated with disease:

   respiratory embarrassment.

Other Words From

• preem·barrass·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of embarrassment¹

From the French word embarrassement, dating back to 1670–80. See embarrass, -ment

Synonym Study

See shame.

Example Sentences

By nominating Gaetz, and him subsequently resigning from Congress, Trump helped a loyalist avoid potential embarrassment, if not worse: As Gaetz is no longer a member of the House, the House can no longer issue a report about him.

From Salon

Trump himself, at least, was well-advised to stay neutral in the Senate leadership contest, knowing that this was one internal battle where his input would have limited effect, and where his instincts could have brought him to a place of embarrassment.

From Slate

Attwell gave a statement to the panel about the "stress, distress, fear and embarrassment caused to him" as a result of the post, while Webb said it "has the potential of serving as a green light to those who seek to abuse officials and normalises questioning the integrity of all referees".

From BBC

One of his victims told BBC News NI that Morrow "thrived off me feeling shame and embarrassment".

From BBC

I was feeling regret and embarrassment.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• chagrin
• confusion
• difficulty
• dilemma
• mess
• mistake
• unease