Definition

Noun: * A feeling of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or disconcertion, often caused by a sudden loss of composure or confidence. It implies being made to feel awkward, ashamed, or modest in an unexpected situation.

Examples

• Her sudden compliment filled him with abashment, and he could not meet her eyes.
• To his great abashment, he realized he had been arguing with the company's CEO.
• She felt a wave of abashment when she tripped in front of the entire audience.

Advanced Usage

• "Much to someone's abashment": A formal phrase used to introduce the cause of someone's embarrassed state.
  • Much to his abashment, the teacher praised his poorly prepared essay in front of the class.

Variants and Related Words

• Abash (verb): To cause someone to feel embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed.
  • He was not abashed by their criticism.
• Abashed (adjective): Embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed.
  • She gave an abashed smile after making the mistake.

Synonyms

• Embarrassment
• Discomfiture
• Chagrin
• Confusion

Antonyms

• Confidence
• Poise
• Assurance
• Composure

Noun

1. feeling embarrassed due to modesty