shamefaced

American  

[sheym-feyst] / ˈʃeɪmˌfeɪst /

adjective

1. modest or bashful.

2. showing shame.

   shamefaced apologies.

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shamefaced British  

/ ˈʃeɪmˌfeɪst, ʃeɪmˈfeɪsɪdlɪ, ˈʃeɪmˌfeɪstlɪ /

adjective

1. bashful or modest

2. showing a sense of shame

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Other Word Forms

• shamefacedly adverb
• shamefacedness noun

Etymology

Origin of shamefaced

1545–55; alteration of shamefast by folk etymology; shame, faced

Example Sentences

The fallout, so far, has included shamefaced admissions and apologies from judges; a promise of improvement from the Administrative Office of the U.S.

From Washington Post

Around the world, eugenic programs came to a shamefaced halt.

From Literature

For the first time, even after admitting her role in today’s mess, Witching Hour seemed shamefaced.

From Literature

Most cases end amicably: shamefaced neighbours return the cat, everyone moves on.

From The Guardian

I received a shamefaced apology from the boy and was instructed not to worry about him further.

From Literature