Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

Thesaurus

embarrassment

noun

Synonyms and Antonyms of embarrassment

1 the emotional state of being made self-consciously uncomfortable
  • experienced the great embarrassment of tripping while on stage
Synonyms of embarrassment

abashment, confusion, discomfiture, fluster, mortification
Words Related to embarrassment

agitation, bother, chagrin, discomfort, discomposure, dismay, disquiet, distress, disturbance, perturbation, unease, uneasiness, upset

disgrace, ignominy, shame

debasement, degradation, humiliation, mortification

humble pie
Phrases Synonymous with embarrassment

egg on one's face
Near Antonyms of embarrassment

aplomb, assurance, composure, confidence, coolness, equanimity, poise, self-assurance, self-confidence, self-possession
2 something that makes movement or progress difficult
  • A big suitcase filled with clothes proved to be more an embarrassment than a convenience on my trip.
Synonyms of embarrassment

balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, encumbrance, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, impediment, inhibition, interference, manacle, obstacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel
Words Related to embarrassment

catch, hitch, rub, snag

barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall

arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint

embargo, stoppage

delay, holdup, stall

burden, cumber, load

danger, hazard, peril, reef

adversity, difficulty, disadvantage, drawback, hardship
Near Antonyms of embarrassment

catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus

advantage, break, edge

aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden (also handmaid), help

Learn More about embarrassment

  1. Dictionary: Definition of embarrassment Medical Dictionary: Definition of embarrassment Spanish Central: Translation of embarrassment Nglish: Translation of embarrassment for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of embarrassment for Arabic speakers

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up embarrassment? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games