embarrassing

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

Synonyms of embarrassing

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

Examples of embarrassing in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

That was a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a collective moment in England and, instead, his decisions led to an embarrassing surrender that will linger in minds for decades. — The Athletic Uk Staff, New York Times, 16 July 2026

The Sacramento Kings turned in an embarrassing performance in the NBA Summer League on Tuesday. — Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026

Miami nearly got left out, too, which would have left the ACC with an embarrassing zero teams in the field. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 15 July 2026

The companies that understand this will still have embarrassing mornings. — Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1778, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for embarrassing

• polarising
• terracing