abashed
UK: əˈbæʃt | US: əˈbæʃt
adj. feeling or caused to feel embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed
The word "abashed" originates from Middle English "abaishen," derived from Old French "esbahir" (to astonish), which itself combines the intensive prefix "es-" (from Latin "ex-") with "bahir" (to gape or be startled). The root "bash" implies a sudden shock or striking motion, metaphorically extended to the emotional state of being startled into embarrassment. Over time, the prefix "a-" intensified the sense of being visibly disconcerted, while "-ed" solidified its adjectival form.
She was abashed by the sudden attention from the crowd.
His critical remarks left me feeling utterly abashed.
The child looked abashed after being scolded in public.
Despite his confidence, he grew abashed when his mistake was pointed out.
Her abashed smile revealed her discomfort with the praise.