abashes
/əˈbæʃɪz/
VERB
1. To embarrass or make someone feel ashamed
To cause someone to feel embarrassed, ashamed, or self-conscious, particularly through criticism, an awkward situation, or unwanted attention.
1.1. Personal embarrassment and shame
Used when someone's words or actions cause another person to feel uncomfortable, ashamed, or self-conscious in a social or personal situation.
Synonyms
- embarrasses
- humiliates
- mortifies
- shames
- chagrins
- disconcerts
Antonyms
- reassures
- comforts
- encourages
- emboldens
Examples
- The teacher avoids making remarks that abashes students in front of their classmates.
- His unexpected question abashes her during the formal interview.
- Public criticism often abashes people who are already uncertain about their abilities.
Related Words
- embarrassment
- shame
- self-consciousness
- awkwardness
- mortification
- discomfort
1.2. To unsettle or disturb someone's composure
Used when something causes a person to lose confidence, become flustered, or feel momentarily confused or uncomfortable.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The interviewer's challenging questions abashes inexperienced candidates.
- The unexpected accusation abashes him momentarily, but he soon regains his composure.
- Neither the criticism nor the hostile audience abashes the experienced speaker.
Related Words
- composure
- confidence
- poise
- nervousness
- uncertainty
- self-possession