What does shamefaced mean?
Shamefaced means embarrassed and ashamed in a way that is visible or awkward. It commonly describes a person's expression, manner, or apology, suggesting that they are uncomfortable because they have done something embarrassing, made a mistake, or been caught out. The word is closely related to the idea of a “face of shame,” which explains its image of someone unable to conceal their discomfort. Although it can describe genuine remorse, shamefaced does not necessarily mean deeply guilty or morally ashamed; it often emphasizes the visible awkwardness of feeling embarrassed. In everyday use, it is a vivid alternative to saying that someone looked embarrassed, abashed, or sheepish. The word is suitable for general prose and conversation, and its slightly expressive tone makes it particularly effective when describing a conspicuous reaction.
adjectiveFeeling or appearing embarrassed and ashamed, especially in an awkward or conspicuous way. It describes a person who appears unable to hide their embarrassment or sense of disgrace.
- Feeling embarrassed and ashamed, especially in an awkward or conspicuous way.
- Having an expression or manner that visibly displays embarrassment or shame.
"He gave a shamefaced apology after accidentally spilling coffee across the presentation."
"The child looked shamefaced after realizing she had taken the wrong photograph."
"After the mistake was pointed out, he became shamefaced and quietly apologized."
Shamefaced turns the abstract feeling of shame into a visible expression: you can look shamefaced even when no one has said a word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shamefaced come from?
Shamefaced developed from the older compound shame-faced, literally suggesting a face marked by shame. The compound is associated with the older sense of displaying shame or abasement and was later understood in its modern sense of awkward embarrassment. It combines shame with the past participle faced, using faced in the sense of having a particular expression or appearance.
Related word forms
How shamefaced is actually used
The adjective is usually used for a person, expression, manner, or apology. It is mildly formal but common in both British and American English. The spelling 'shame-faced' is also accepted, though 'shamefaced' is more usual.
Easily confused with shamefaced
Shamefaced describes someone who is visibly embarrassed or ashamed, whereas shameless describes someone who feels no shame or lacks embarrassment.