abashed
/əˈbæʃt/
ADJECTIVE
1. Embarrassed or ashamed
Feeling embarrassed, ashamed, or self-conscious because of an awkward situation, a mistake, criticism, or unwanted attention.
1.1. Personal embarrassment and shame
Describes someone who feels uncomfortable or ashamed after making a mistake, receiving unexpected attention, or finding themselves in an awkward social situation.
Synonyms
- embarrassed
- humiliated
- mortified
- ashamed
- chagrined
- self-conscious
Antonyms
- unembarrassed
- confident
- composed
- unashamed
- self-assured
Examples
- He looked abashed when he realized that he had called his teacher by the wrong name.
- She felt abashed after arriving late to the important meeting.
- The abashed student apologized for interrupting the discussion.
Related Words
- embarrassment
- shame
- awkwardness
- mortification
- self-consciousness
- discomfort
1.2. Disconcerted or flustered
Describes someone who feels unsettled, confused, or loses their usual composure and confidence when confronted with an unexpected question, challenge, or situation.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The normally confident speaker appeared abashed by the unexpected criticism.
- He remained abashed for a moment after being questioned about his decision.
- Although abashed by the challenging question, she quickly regained her composure.
Related Words
- composure
- confidence
- nervousness
- uncertainty
- poise
- self-possession
1.3. Humbled or made to feel inferior
Describes someone whose pride, confidence, or sense of superiority has been diminished by criticism, failure, defeat, or another person's actions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- emboldened
- encouraged
- elated
- triumphant
- confident
Examples
- The abashed competitor accepted the judges' criticism with quiet dignity.
- He seemed abashed after discovering that his assumptions had been incorrect.
- The abashed manager acknowledged the team's concerns and reconsidered his approach.
Related Words
- pride
- humility
- defeat
- self-esteem
- disappointment
- introspection