Synonyms for

Embarrass

Verb / ɪˈmberʌs / Another word for embarrass — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to cause someone to feel self-conscious, ashamed, or uncomfortable

Synonyms & similar words

Synonyms by register

Antonyms

Common collocations

  • deeply embarrassed
  • utterly embarrassed
  • feel embarrassed
  • embarrass someone
  • embarrass yourself
  • embarrassing moment
  • embarrassing situation

Word family

adjective embarrassing

Usage note

Often used reflexively (embarrass oneself). Can imply causing shame or awkwardness.

Example sentences

  1. I didn't want to embarrass him in front of his friends.
  2. She was too shy to dance because she was afraid she would embarrass herself.
  3. He was embarrassed when he realized he had worn mismatched shoes.
  4. She tried to hide her face so no one would see how embarrassed she was.
  5. I felt embarrassed when my mom told my new friend about the time I wet my pants in kindergarten.

Quotes

  • "I think today women are very scared to celebrate themselves, because then they just get labeled," she said. "I think you just have to know who you are and what you stand for. And then I think it's fine to celebrate yourself and your body. I think that's what makes you confident. You can't be embarrassed of what you're made of." - Emily Ratajkowski
  • "I'm just embarrassed by some of the parts of my life. I'm embarrassed that I'm still alive. I think I should have been dead long ago. But I'm embarrassed and thrilled at the same time." - John Waters
  • "I think if you ask any of us here, we all dreamed of being on Broadway one day, and to be here is really kind of embarrassing." - Sutton Foster

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