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

By coach Cheryl Reeve’s standard, Saturday night’s match against the Portland Fire was a defensive embarrassment.

— Anya Armentrout, Twin Cities, 19 July 2026
Was Trump, reportedly livid over the Air Force One leak, concerned about the risk to security—or about the prospect of personal embarrassment due to the failings of a questionable gift that had cost taxpayers tens of millions of dollars to upgrade?

— Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 18 July 2026

Definition of embarrassment

Noun

The Cook County Department of Public Health is working to counteract vaccine misinformation, myths and confusion regarding vaccines as part of its efforts to increase vaccination rates.

— Francine Knowles, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026
There’s been a lot of excitement, and a lot of questions, and a lot of confusion.

— Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 20 July 2026

Definition of confusion

Noun

Weber’s account does not play down the violence and humiliation of the process.

— Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026
Europe entered Sunday singles with an 11½-4½ advantage and had already reduced the final session to little more than a desperate American attempt to avoid complete humiliation.

— Dan Zaksheske, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2026

Definition of humiliation

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morticians

mortification

mortifications

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“Mortification.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mortification. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of mortification

noun

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