guilt trip

¹

noun

1. Informal. a feeling of guilt or responsibility, especially one not justified by reality.

guilt-trip

²

[ gilt-trip ]

verb (used with object)

, guilt-tripped, guilt-trip·ping.

1. Informal. to attempt to instill a guilt trip in; play upon the guilt feelings of. guilt ( def 4 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of guilt trip¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Apps can give you reminders, accountability, guilt trips, or even a personal habit coach, but in the end you still have to do the work — you can’t app your way to a better self.

From Vox

I hesitate to respond to the re-hashing of your antiquated guilt trip on women to get married.

From The Daily Beast

There are no real medical reasons for such a disgusting invasive procedure, other than a politically legislated guilt trip.

From The Daily Beast

Will he be able to guilt-trip, shame, or otherwise compel American Muslims to communicate more with law enforcement?

From The Daily Beast