disgraceful

UK: dɪsˈɡreɪsfʊl | US: dɪsˈɡreɪsfəl

Definition

  1. adj. deserving or causing shame or disapproval

  2. adj. lacking respectability or honor

Structure
dis <opposite of>grace <elegance, favor>ful <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "disgraceful" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Dis-" (from Latin dis-), meaning "opposite of" or "lack of," negates the root.
  2. "Grace" (from Latin gratia, meaning "favor" or "elegance"), originally conveyed divine approval or charm.
  3. "-ful" (Old English -full), an adjective-forming suffix indicating "full of."

The term evolved from the idea of "lacking grace" (favor/dignity) to its modern sense of "shameful." The progression reflects societal values linking moral failure to the absence of grace.

Examples

  1. His behavior at the ceremony was utterly disgraceful.

  2. The politician’s corruption scandal was a disgraceful abuse of power.

  3. Leaving trash in the park is a disgraceful act.

  4. The team’s disgraceful performance disappointed their fans.

  5. She found his lies not just dishonest but downright disgraceful.