embarrassment

Definition

A state of discomfort arising from bashfulness or consciousness of having violated a social rule; humiliation.

Etymology

From embarrass + -ment.

Example Sentences

• "The desired effect [of affectionate teasing] is a look of pleasurable embarrassment, as if you administered a compliment. Anyone who doesn't stop teasing immediately upon producing real embarrassment, anger or tears is not really teasing."
• "Jack, you are an embarrassment to this family."
• "Losing this highly publicized case was an embarrassment to the firm."