ignominy
UK: ˈɪɡnəmɪni | US: ˈɪɡnəˌmɪni
n. public shame or disgrace
n. dishonorable conduct or quality
ignominy = ig<not> + nomin<name> + y<noun suffix>
- ig<not>: From Latin in- (negation), altered to ig- before n.
- nomin<name>: From Latin nomen (name, reputation).
- y<noun suffix>: Forms abstract nouns indicating state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
Ignominy originates from Latin ignominia, combining in- (not) + nomen (name/reputation). It literally means "loss of name" or "bad reputation," reflecting the ancient belief that shame erodes one's social identity. The word evolved through Old French ignominie before entering English, retaining its core sense of public dishonor.
The politician resigned in ignominy after the scandal.
His actions brought ignominy upon the entire family.
The team’s defeat was an ignominy they couldn’t forget.
She endured the ignominy of public ridicule.
Historical records often highlight the ignominy of fallen leaders.