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.
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
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said it was "shameful" that attacks on Jewish communities were happening "on such a frequent basis" in the UK and agreed with Hall that it amounted to a national emergency.
From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026
I guess I had the sense that something shameful on my part—I don’t know what—invited these pedagogic outrages.
From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly
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.
