MORTIFICATION Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

mortification

noun

ˌmȯr-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən

Definition of mortification

as in embarrassment

the emotional state of being made self-consciously uncomfortable the mortification of being dumped the night before the prom

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of mortification Monica’s mortification that summer of ’98 forms the backbone of Julia Langbein’s latest novel Dear Monica Lewinsky, out this month from Doubleday. — Lilyanna D'amato, ARTnews.com, 26 Apr. 2026 Springsteen’s reaction was a mix of mortification and bemusement. — Eric Cortellessa, Time, 2 Apr. 2026 The comments section features a piquant blend of solemnity, mortification, tastelessness, and transphobia, which accords with Moreschi’s reception in his lifetime. — Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026 As if unable to resist her own mortification, Leonora asks if the bed is comfortable. — Literary Hub, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mortification

Recent Examples of Synonyms for mortification

Noun

Our state’s ballot access laws are an anti-democratic embarrassment.

— Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 25 July 2026
In cases like Starbucks Korea, the issue extends beyond embarrassment because the campaign inadvertently touched on events that remain culturally and politically sensitive.

— Karen Stollznow, The Conversation, 23 July 2026

Definition of embarrassment

Noun

Washington — The Federal Reserve has remained mum about interest rates as inflation concerns have heightened, leading to confusion about the state of the US economy.

— Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 27 July 2026
That has generated confusion about how rules ought to be applied and advantaged some schools and conferences over others.

— Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 27 July 2026

Definition of confusion

Noun

Hye-ri, the spoiled daughter whose bullying acted as a catalyst for this entire sequence of events, has been sent abroad following the public humiliation of her family.

— Kayti Burt, Time, 27 July 2026
Weber’s account does not play down the violence and humiliation of the process.

— Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026

Definition of humiliation

Browse Nearby Words

morticians

mortification

mortifications

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“Mortification.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mortification. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of mortification

noun

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