self-abasement

[self-uh-beys-muhnt, self-]

noun

1. humiliation of oneself, especially as a result of guilt, shame, or the like.

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-abasement¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

She cites an online tendency among women to wield the word as a tool of self-abasement — “I’m a mess, I choose chaos.”

From Salon

After all, the look requires doing everything wrong, in a way so thorough that self-abasement seems a big part of the point.

From Salon

But they all are based on the false promise that self-abasement before men is a woman's happiness.

From Salon

Strong, as we know from his portrayal of Kendall Roy on “Succession,” has a talent for self-abasement.

From Los Angeles Times

Facing incessant doubts about his fitness for office, Mr. Walker tried self-abasement.

From New York Times

Related Words

• confusion 
• degradation 
• disgrace 
• ignominy 
• indignity 
• shame