embarrassment

noun

em·​bar·​rass·​ment im-ˈber-əs-mənt 

-ˈba-rəs-

1

a

: something that embarrasses

the scandal was a major embarrassment

b

: an excessive quantity from which to select

—used especially in the phrase embarrassment of riches

2

: the state of being embarrassed: such as

a

: confusion or disturbance of mind

couldn't hide her embarrassment

b

: difficulty arising from the want of money to pay debts

c

: difficulty in functioning as a result of disease

cardiac embarrassment

Synonyms of embarrassment

• confusion
• humiliation
• discomfort
• unease

Examples of embarrassment in a Sentence

She couldn't hide her embarrassment.

The scandal was a major embarrassment for the government.

He's an embarrassment to his family.

Recent Examples on the Web

July 23 – August 22 A correction could be more useful than the embarrassment that comes with it. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2026

Leo July 23 – August 22 A correction could be more useful than the embarrassment that comes with it. — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 6 Nov. 2026

The language, the recipient or the framing was chosen to limit liability, embarrassment or controversy, and the audience could feel it. — Ronn Torossian, Forbes.com, 6 Nov. 2026

The Westchester County Board of Elections is an unmitigated embarrassment for not having the scanners and ballots ready for Election Day. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 5 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing embarrassment

• embarrassment of riches

Kids Definition

embarrassment

noun

em·​bar·​rass·​ment im-ˈbar-əs-mənt 

1

a

: something that embarrasses

the scandal was a terrible embarrassment

b

: an overly large quantity from which to select

—used especially in the phrase embarrassment of riches

2

: the state of being embarrassed

blushed with embarrassment

Medical Definition

embarrassment

noun

em·​bar·​rass·​ment im-ˈbar-ə-smənt 

: difficulty in functioning as a result of disease

cardiac embarrassment

respiratory embarrassment