What does shamefacedly mean?
“Shamefacedly” is an adverb meaning in a way that visibly shows shame, embarrassment, or guilt. It commonly describes lowering one's eyes, turning away, smiling awkwardly, or speaking hesitantly because of embarrassment. The word is more specific than a general description of being nervous or awkward: it implies that the person is conscious of having behaved badly, made an error, or failed to meet expectations. In literary and formal writing, it can introduce a vivid detail that reveals a person's inner state through behavior. “Shamefacedly” is used in both British and American English and is especially effective when paired with gestures such as lowering one's eyes or making an apologetic admission. It is also a useful alternative to “ashamedly” when the focus is on a person's outward manner rather than on the abstract feeling of shame.
adverbIn a shamefaced manner, especially with a downward gaze or an expression that shows embarrassment and guilt.
- In a manner showing shame, embarrassment, or guilt, typically with a lowered gaze or hesitant manner.
"He lowered his eyes shamefacedly and apologized for the mistake."
"She smiled shamefacedly when she admitted that she had forgotten the appointment."
"The witness spoke shamefacedly after being confronted with the evidence."
It captures the unmistakable expression of someone who knows they have done something wrong but cannot quite meet your eyes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of shamefacedly
The word is formed from the adjective “shamefaced” and the adverbial suffix “-ly.” “Shamefaced” combines “shame” with “faced,” evoking the appearance of someone who is ashamed and unable to look directly ahead. The combination reflects the longstanding English sense of a face lowered or troubled by embarrassment.
How shamefacedly is actually used
The word is somewhat formal and descriptive. It is especially associated with a lowered gaze, a hesitant expression, or an apologetic manner.
Easily confused with shamefacedly
“Shamefacedly” focuses specifically on an embarrassed or guilty appearance, whereas “sheepishly” more broadly suggests awkwardness or timidity.