embarrassing

1 of 2

adjective

em·​bar·​rass·​ing im-ˈber-ə-siŋ 

-ˈba-rə-

: causing a feeling of self-conscious confusion and distress : causing embarrassment

an embarrassing error

The official was ever so polite, and ever so sorry, but the rule was strict, and he could not let us in. It was very embarrassing, for many eyes were on us.

—Mark Twain

embarrassingly

im-ˈber-ə-siŋ-lē 

-ˈba-rə-

adverb

an embarrassingly messy house

embarrassing

2 of 2

present participle of embarrass

Synonyms of embarrassing

Adjective

• uncomfortable
• awkward
• unpleasant
• difficult
• confusing
• disturbing

Examples of embarrassing in a Sentence

Adjective

an embarrassing failure of memory inauspiciously marked my first appearance as an actor

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Villegas' primary win was an embarrassing defeat for establishment Democrats, who intervened in the Central Valley contest to boost the moderate candidate. — CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

At 2-5 after an embarrassing loss to the Dolphins, the Jets have given little reason to believe Glenn should return in 2027. — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 1 Nov. 2026

And Florida has had enough respectable losses, embarrassing losses and inexplicable losses to last several coaching administrations. — Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Oct. 2026

There’s relatable hilarity to his embarrassing battle with no-touch appliances in an airport restroom. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 29 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1778, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for embarrassing

• polarising
• terracing