embarrassing

Word Origin & History

1670s, "perplex, throw into doubt," from French embarrasser (16c.), literally "to block," from embarras "obstacle," from Italian imbarrazzo, from imbarrare "to bar," from in- "into, upon" (see in- (2)) + Vulgar Latin *barra "bar."

Meaning "hamper, hinder" is from 1680s. Meaning "make (someone) feel awkward" first recorded 1828. Original sense preserved in embarras de richesse (1751), from French (1726): the condition of having more wealth than one knows what to do with. Related: Embarrassed; embarrassing; embarrassingly.

Example Sentences forembarrassing

His situation was one of the most difficult and embarrassing which can be conceived of.

The pleasure and honour seemed to be painful and embarrassing to both.

But what an embarrassing job it is to get acquainted with one's father.

And fancy how embarrassing had you continued in the office for which you were engaged.

An embarrassing accident also favored us with the use of salt.

Even a hint might lead to embarrassing questions and he had promised Dunn.

The very idea of relation or comparison was embarrassing to them.

And if he saw it, questions would be asked, embarrassing questions.

After his departure there was a most embarrassing interval of silence.

The situation of our regiment was extremely critical and embarrassing.

embarrassing

More words related to embarrassing

unsettling

upsetting