shameful
Americanadjective
-
causing shame.
shameful behavior.
- Synonyms:
- humiliating
-
disgraceful or scandalous.
shameful treatment.
- Synonyms:
- low, base, vile, ignominious, dishonorable
- Antonyms:
- honorable
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of shameful
before 950; Middle English; Old English scamful. See shame, -ful
Explanation
Cheating to win a game is a shameful act because it goes against fairness and honesty. Any shameful act can leave you feeling guilty and embarrassed if you get caught — as it should. The word shameful describes actions or behaviors that are disgraceful. For example, cheating on a test or telling a hurtful lie are shameful acts because they betray the values of trustworthiness, honesty, and kindness. When someone does something shameful, they are held in a state of dishonor, leading to feelings of regret and a desire to try and make things right.
Vocabulary lists containing shameful
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It details how a leaked image lands on her whole family, fathers unable to face work, sisters whose marriages collapse, households watched "in a shameful manner".
From BBC • Jun. 21, 2026
All of that is shameful, and deeply contrary to the supposed traditions of international sport.
From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026
"As a child, you learn that silence is the best so you carry that and then it becomes shameful," she said.
From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026
In a video statement released by the campaign, Gertner said she found it “really shameful that there’s a group of media outlets and people who are willing to spread gossip.”
From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026
Even when I admit to something that I think is shameful or embarrassing, she doesn’t scold me or look at me like I’m a leper.
From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
