The word “ashamed” is a common yet powerful term in the English language, often used to express feelings of guilt or embarrassment. It plays a significant role in emotional communication, helping individuals convey regret or discomfort about their actions or situations. Understanding the ashamed meaning and its usage can enhance both written and spoken expression.
Definition (Meaning)
“Ashamed” refers to feeling embarrassed or guilty because of one’s actions, characteristics, or associations. It often implies a sense of regret or humiliation tied to personal or social standards.
Synonyms
Some common ashamed synonyms include embarrassed, guilty, humiliated, mortified, and sheepish. These words can be used interchangeably depending on the context to express similar emotions.
Examples of ashamed in a Sentence
- She felt ashamed after lying to her best friend about the incident.
- He was ashamed of his poor performance during the competition.
- They were ashamed to admit they had forgotten their anniversary.
Word History
The term “ashamed” originates from the Old English word “āscamian,” which means to feel shame or to be put to shame. It is derived from “scamu,” meaning shame, and has evolved over centuries to its current form in modern English. The word has retained its core meaning of embarrassment or guilt since its early usage in Middle English texts.