embarrass
verb (used with object)
to cause confusion and shame to; make uncomfortably self-conscious; disconcert; abash.
was embarrassing
-
past progressiveof embarrass.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
The Ashley Madison scandal was embarrassing but not illegal.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 1, 2026
It was embarrassing to the franchise when that word got out, because the Dolphins hadn’t fired existing coach Tony Sparano.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 11, 2025
It was embarrassing, and had the look of someone under a lot of pressure getting ahead of himself during a very fluid situation.
From Slate ● Sep. 13, 2025
Amid the fallout, Waltz appeared on Fox News to take "full responsibility" for building the group chat, adding that it was "embarrassing".
From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2025
I knew I’d be punished, and it was embarrassing.
From "Facing the Lion" by Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton and Herman Viola
