ashamed
UK: əˈʃeɪmd | US: əˈʃeɪmd
adj. feeling guilt, embarrassment, or regret due to one's actions or circumstances
adj. reluctant or unwilling because of fear of shame
The word "ashamed" originates from Old English āscamian, combining the intensive prefix ā- (modern "a-") with scamian ("to feel shame"). The root "shame" traces back to Proto-Germanic skamō, meaning "disgrace." The suffix "-ed" transforms the verb into an adjective, denoting a state of being. Over time, the term evolved to emphasize the emotional weight of guilt or humiliation, retaining its core logic of "overcome by shame."
She felt ashamed after lying to her parents.
He was too ashamed to admit his mistake.
They grew ashamed of their selfish behavior.
The child looked ashamed when caught stealing candy.
Never be ashamed to ask for help when you need it.