humiliating

word · lemma: humiliate

/hjuˈmɪɫiˌeɪtɪŋ/
hyoo-MI-lee-ay-ting
/hjuːmˈɪlɪˌeɪtɪŋ/
hyoo-MI-li-ay-ting

Definition

Making someone feel very ashamed, embarrassed, or less respected, especially in front of other people. It describes an experience or situation that hurts a person's dignity.

Usage & Nuances

Usually describes situations, comments, or experiences, not people directly. Common patterns: 'a humiliating defeat', 'deeply humiliating', 'feel humiliating'. Stronger and more painful than merely 'embarrassing'.

Example Sentences

It was humiliating to forget my speech on stage.

basic

Losing the game 8–0 was humiliating for the team.

basic

The teacher said the joke was humiliating to the student.

basic

Getting corrected like that in front of everyone was really humiliating.

natural

The interview turned humiliating when they laughed at my answer.

natural

I know it sounds small, but asking my parents for money again felt humiliating.

natural