shame
14 synonyms and 3 antonyms for shame, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A painful feeling of embarrassment or guilt caused by awareness of having done something wrong or improper.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use shame
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English sceamu, going back to a common Germanic root for the feeling of shame.
Full origin of shame →Frequently asked questions
What does “shame” mean?
The word “shame” means a painful feeling of embarrassment or guilt caused by awareness of having done something wrong or improper. In plain terms, a painful feeling of guilt or embarrassment, or — as an expression — used to say something is disappointing.
How do you pronounce “shame”?
“Shame” is pronounced SHAYM (/ˈʃeɪ̯m/ in IPA).
How do you use “shame” in a sentence?
Here is “shame” used in a sentence: “He felt a deep shame after lying to his parents.”
What is another word for “shame”?
Words with a similar meaning to “shame” include also: Thesaurus:shame, abasement, disgrace, dishonour, embarrassment and ignominy.
What is the opposite of “shame”?
The opposite of “shame” — its antonyms — are honor, exaltation and dignify.
What part of speech is “shame”?
Depending on how it is used, “shame” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “shame” come from?
The word “shame” comes from Old English. From Old English sceamu, going back to a common Germanic root for the feeling of shame.
Is “shame” a common word?
“Shame” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between shame and guilt?
Guilt is feeling bad about something you did — a specific action you regret. Shame is feeling bad about who you are, a sense that the self is flawed or exposed. Guilt says I did something wrong; shame says I am wrong. This is why shame tends to cut deeper and feel more personal.
What is the difference between shame and embarrassment?
Embarrassment is a lighter, passing discomfort after an awkward or clumsy moment, often in front of others. Shame is deeper and more painful, tied to a sense of having done real wrong or being unworthy. You might feel embarrassed by a trip in public, but ashamed of betraying someone's trust.
Is shame good or bad?
Shame is painful, but it is not simply bad. In small doses it signals that we have crossed our own moral lines and nudges us to make amends. Persistent or excessive shame, however, can damage self-worth and mental health. Its value depends on whether it guides us or overwhelms us.
What is the opposite of shame?
The clearest opposite is pride — a positive sense of worth in oneself or one's actions. Depending on context, dignity, self-respect, or honor also stand against shame. Where shame makes us want to hide, these feelings let us stand openly and comfortably before others.