embarrass

IPA

Dictionary definition of embarrass

To cause someone to feel self-conscious, uneasy, or awkward in a social or public setting.
"He managed to embarrass the entire team with his unprofessional behavior."

Detailed meaning of embarrass

When a person embarrasses someone else, they may bring about feelings of shame, humiliation, or discomfort. This can occur through actions, words, or situations that expose the person to ridicule, scrutiny, or an undesirable spotlight. Embarrassment often arises from situations that violate social norms, expose personal weaknesses, or reveal private information. It can also stem from public mishaps, mistakes, or failures. The intention behind embarrassment may vary, ranging from unintentional incidents to deliberate acts meant to humiliate or mock. People may become embarrassed due to their own actions or circumstances, but it is also possible for others to embarrass them intentionally or unintentionally. Overall, embarrassment involves creating a sense of unease or self-consciousness that affects a person's emotional well-being in a social context.

Example sentences of embarrass

1. His unexpected comment did embarrass her in front of the entire audience.
2. I hope my attire doesn't embarrass me at the formal dinner tonight.
3. She tried not to embarrass herself while giving the presentation.
4. Their teasing remarks were meant to embarrass him, but he remained composed.
5. The mispronounced words did embarrass him during the speech.
6. I didn't mean to embarrass you; it was just a harmless joke.

History and etymology of embarrass

The verb 'embarrass' has a fascinating etymology that can be traced back to the French language. It is derived from the Old French word 'embarrasser,' which means 'to block' or 'to obstruct.' This Old French term, in turn, is thought to have its roots in the Spanish word 'embarazar,' which means 'to impede' or 'to hinder.' The connection between the original meaning of 'embarrass' and its modern usage lies in the notion of causing someone to feel self-conscious, uneasy, or awkward in a social or public setting, as if they were obstructed or hindered in their actions or words. Over time, the term 'embarrass' transitioned from its original sense of physical obstruction to describe the discomfort or awkwardness that arises from social or interpersonal situations. Today, 'embarrass' signifies the act of making someone feel uneasy or self-conscious in a way that hinders their confidence or smooth interaction.

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Further usage examples of embarrass

1. Her candid honesty could sometimes embarrass those around her.
2. He didn't want to embarrass his friend by revealing the secret.
3. It's essential to avoid actions that might embarrass the company.
4. Her bluntness tended to embarrass people at social gatherings.
5. The unexpected question seemed to embarrass the interviewee.
6. He couldn't help but embarrass himself by tripping over his own feet.
7. It's important not to embarrass others with personal inquiries.
8. She didn't intend to embarrass anyone with her candid remarks.
9. They hoped the prank wouldn't embarrass their unsuspecting friend.
10. The awkward silence began to embarrass everyone in the room.
11. Her attempts at humor could sometimes embarrass her friends.
12. The situation was delicate, and he didn't want to embarrass anyone.
13. His inability to dance well didn't embarrass him; he enjoyed it anyway.
14. The miscommunication led to an embarrassing misunderstanding.
15. Did you embarrass yourself at the party last night by spilling your drink everywhere?
16. I didn't mean to embarrass you by bringing up that story in front of your friends.
17. She's afraid that her parents will embarrass her in front of her new boyfriend.
18. The company didn't want to embarrass the CEO, so they kept the financial issues secret.
19. The student's knowledge of history was so vast that he managed to embarrass the teacher.
20. The coach made a poor decision which embarrassingly backfired and embarrassed the entire squad.
21. Please don't embarrass me by mentioning my fear of spiders during the meeting.
22. Their practical joke went too far and seriously embarrassed the new intern.
23. During the talent show, the comedian tried to embarrass the judges with his witty remarks.
24. He accidentally sent a personal email to the entire office, which must have embarrassed him greatly.
25. She worked hard not to embarrass herself by thoroughly preparing for the public speech.