humiliate

word

/hjuˈmɪɫiˌeɪt/
hyoo-MI-lee-ayt
/hjuːmˈɪlɪˌeɪt/
hyoo-MI-lee-ayt

Definition

To make someone feel very ashamed or stupid, usually in front of other people.

Usage & Nuances

Usually negative and strong; implies a loss of dignity. Collocations: 'publicly humiliate', 'feel humiliated'. It's more severe than 'embarrass'. Often used in formal and emotional contexts.

Example Sentences

He tried to humiliate his classmate in front of everyone.

basic

I would never want to humiliate anyone.

basic

The coach did not mean to humiliate the player.

basic

She felt humiliated after being laughed at during the meeting.

natural

It was wrong of him to humiliate his friend on social media.

natural

Nobody likes to be humiliated, especially not in public.

natural