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Definitions

embarrass

[em-bar-uhs] / ɛmˈbær əs /
VERB
cause mental discomfort
Synonyms
STRONGEST
agitate annoy bewilder bother confuse disconcert distract disturb dumbfound faze fluster irk mortify perplex perturb plague puzzle rattle shame stun upset
STRONG
abash bug chagrin discombobulate discomfit discompose discountenance distress nonplus tease throw
WEAK
catch one short give a bad time give a hard time hang up let down make a monkey of put in a hole put in a spot put on the spot put out of countenance show up throw into a tizzy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aid appease calm clarify clear up comfort delight enlighten explain help make happy order organize please quiet soothe
WEAK
gladden

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is not revelation: The defense secretary is well known for preening for the cameras with a level of self-regard that would embarrass most supermodels.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

They were blown away by Ireland at Twickenham as the men in green ran in five tries to embarrass Steve Borthwick's side 42-21.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

The Justice Department’s release of its Jeffrey Epstein files has given some powerful people fresh fodder to embarrass their foes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 8, 2026

Perhaps the biggest concern has been Dent’s inability to embarrass defenders like he did as a Lobo.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2025

“Might I use your comfort room before we are locked up? I would hate to embarrass myself during my exile.”

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.