Word

embarrassment

noun C1

/ɪmˈbæɹ.əs.mənt/

Meanings

noun

the uncomfortable feeling of shame or awkwardness caused by something you did or that happened to you

noun

a situation or incident that makes someone feel awkward, ashamed, or self-conscious

Definition

Embarrassment is the uncomfortable feeling of shame or self-consciousness when you think you have done something awkward or inappropriate.

Embarrassment is a strong feeling of awkwardness and self-consciousness, often caused by making a mistake or getting unwanted attention. It can happen in public or private, but it is usually tied to how you think others see you. People often blush, laugh nervously, or try to change the subject when they feel embarrassment.

Examples

To my embarrassment, I had been calling my colleague by the wrong name for months.
To your embarrassment, the microphone picked up your sigh during the conference call.
He tried to laugh off his embarrassment after tripping on the stage steps in front of the audience.
She spoke calmly, but her embarrassment was obvious when she realized her email had gone to the entire department.
They hid their embarrassment by changing the topic and focusing on the next task.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse embarrassment with shame, but embarrassment is usually milder and linked to awkward situations rather than serious wrongdoing.