The word "embarass" is frequently misspelled, with many people adding an additional "r" to the word. The correct spelling is "embarrass," which is pronounced /ɪmˈbɛrəs/. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word shows that there is only one "r" in the middle of the word, followed by a short "a" sound. The double "s" at the end of the word is pronounced as a single "s" sound. Remembering this phonetic sequence will help you to write this tricky word correctly in the future.
Embarrass is a verb that can be defined as causing someone to feel self-conscious, uncomfortable, or awkward due to an action, event, or situation. It involves making someone feel ashamed, mortified, or humiliated, often in front of others.
To embarrass someone means to put them in an uncomfortable or awkward position, usually by exposing a flaw, mistake, or vulnerability. This can be done through direct actions, such as making fun of someone or pointing out their inadequacies, or through indirect means, such as causing them to be caught off guard or engaging in inappropriate behavior.
The feeling of embarrassment typically arises when someone is caught in an undesired situation, leading to a loss of face or dignity. It often involves blushing, stammering, or feeling a sense of awkwardness. Embarrassment can be caused by various factors, such as public speaking, being noticed doing something wrong, or receiving unexpected attention.
Embarrassment can be an emotional response to a social or interpersonal situation, and it varies in intensity depending on the individual and their level of self-confidence. While embarrassment is often considered an unpleasant emotion, it can also serve as a social cue for appropriate behavior and may encourage individuals to be more mindful of their actions in the future.
Overall, to embarrass someone is to create a situation that brings about discomfort, awkwardness, or shame, making them feel self-conscious or exposed in a negative way.
The word embarass originated from the French word embarrasser which means to block or to hinder. In the late 16th century, it was borrowed into English as embaras and initially meant to hamper with obstacles or difficulties. Over time, the spelling evolved into embarrass and the meaning shifted towards to cause discomfort, confusion, or awkwardness. The word ultimately derives from the Spanish word embarazar which signifies to impede or to obstruct.