Definition

A feeling of self-consciousness, shame, or awkwardness caused by a situation or action.

Example

She felt a deep sense of embarrassment when she tripped in front of everyone.

Conversation

I felt such a sense of embarrassment when I tripped at the party last night.

Oh no, that sounds awful! Did anyone see you?

Yeah, a few people laughed, and I just wanted to disappear.

I get it, but everyone has those moments; it happens to the best of us!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Embarrassment is derived from the prefix "em-" (meaning to cause to be in) and the root "barrare" (from Spanish, meaning to hinder or obstruct). The word refers to the state of being hindered or obstructed in a social context, leading to feelings of self-consciousness or awkwardness.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'caused to be in' a situation where you feel 'hindered' or 'obstructed' socially — that's what embarrassment means.

Visually Confused Words