The spelling of the word "shamefaced" can be a bit confusing, but its IPA phonetic transcription can help clarify its pronunciation. The word is pronounced as /ˈʃeɪmfeɪst/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "sh" sound at the beginning represents the voiceless palato-alveolar fricative, followed by the long "a" sound in "shame." The second syllable contains a diphthong (ai) and the final "ed" is silent. The word means showing embarrassment or shame and may be used to describe a person's appearance or behavior.
Shamefaced is an adjective that describes a person's state or behavior when feeling ashamed or embarrassed. It refers to an individual who displays a visible sense of shame, often characterized by a downcast or averted gaze, blushing, or an overall timid and timid demeanor. In this state, a shamefaced person may become flustered, nervous, or uneasy, particularly in social or public situations where they feel exposed or judged.
The term derives from the combination of "shame," meaning a painful feeling of humiliation or distress associated with one's actions, and "faced," highlighting the outward manifestation of this shame on a person's face. Shamefacedness often occurs when an individual perceives that they have conducted themselves inappropriately, dishonestly, or immorally. It signifies an acknowledgement and internalization of their wrongdoing and reflects their desire to avoid further judgment or punishment.
Shamefacedness can be seen as a self-reflective response to one's own behavior and is often accompanied by a genuine desire to make amends or rectify the situation. It may also be a crucial emotion that promotes ethical growth and personal accountability. However, it is important to distinguish between healthy shamefacedness that motivates positive change and excessive or pathological shame that may lead to chronic self-blame and low self-esteem.
Easily confused; bashful.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "shamefaced" comes from Old English "sceamu" meaning "shame" or "disgrace", and "feax" meaning "face" or "expression". So, "shamefaced" literally means having a face or expression showing shame or embarrassment.