adjective

embarrassed

embarrassed, ashamed, awkward

I felt so embarrassed when I forgot his name.

I felt so embarrassed when I forgot his name.

She was too embarrassed to admit her mistake.

She was too embarrassed to admit her mistake.

((to be)) embarrassed ((about/by sth.)) to feel ashamed about sth. I was embarrassed by my old photo.

((to be)) embarrassed ((to do sth.)) to feel awkward about doing sth. He was embarrassed to ask for help.

Synonyms: ashamed, self-conscious, awkward; Antonyms: proud, confident

From French 'embarrasser' (to block), from 'em-' (in) + 'barre' (bar). Literally, to put a bar in the way.

Imagine being put 'in a bar' or behind bars, a situation that would make you feel trapped and awkward.

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