Need another word for Shame? Use these synonyms of Shame from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
humiliation
embarrassment
guilt
remorse
regret
self-reproach
contrition
penitence
chagrin
mortification
abashment
ignominy
discredit
dishonor
stigma
scandal
infamy
disgrace
disrepute
odium
opprobrium
humiliation
awkwardness
self-consciousness
unease
discomfort
anxiety
distress
anguish
wretchedness
despondency
dejection
desolation
Meaning of Shame
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, shame is a feeling of guilt, regret, or sadness about something one has done or failed to do, or a negative emotion that combines feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and self-consciousness.
Definitions
- Merriam-Webster defines shame as a painful emotion caused by consciousness of guilt, shortcoming, or impropriety, or a condition of being ashamed.
- The Cambridge Dictionary describes shame as a feeling of being ashamed, which is an unpleasant feeling of guilt, regret, or embarrassment about something you have done or not done.
Example Uses
- The company felt shame for their role in the environmental disaster and took steps to rectify the situation.
- She couldn't shake off the shame of being rejected by her crush and avoided social gatherings for a while.
- The scandal brought shame to the family and damaged their reputation in the community.
- He felt overwhelming shame and guilt after cheating on his partner and apologized profusely.
- The victim of bullying felt deep shame and self-loathing, which affected her mental health.
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
pride
honor
dignity
self-respect
confidence
satisfaction
contentment
gratification
pleasure
delight
joy
elation
exultation
triumph
glory
fame
acclaim
admiration
esteem
respect
approval
praise
commendation
recognition