VERGONHA Meaning and
Definition
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Vergonha is a Portuguese word that translates to "shame" or "embarrassment" in English. It is an emotion characterized by feelings of unease, self-consciousness, or guilt that arises due to a perceived failure or wrongdoing. The term is used to describe the complex emotional and social response people experience when they feel exposed or judged unfavorably by others in a particular situation.
In the Portuguese language, vergonha can also be associated with the notion of modesty or shyness. It often arises in situations where one's actions or behaviors conflict with social expectations or norms, leading to a sense of inadequacy or disapproval. Vergonha may be rooted in a fear of rejection, humiliation, or loss of social standing, and it can manifest differently depending on cultural context and personal experiences.
The emotion of vergonha can be triggered by various scenarios, such as public speaking, making mistakes, being caught in a lie, or witnessing unpleasant situations. It is closely related to self-awareness and empathy, as individuals often internalize the moral judgments and expectations of others, resulting in feelings of shame. The experience of vergonha can be quite intense, often accompanied by physiological changes such as blushing, sweating, or rapid heartbeat.
Overall, vergonha represents an inherent part of human psychology, reflecting the universal need for acceptance and validation within societal frameworks. Understanding and empathizing with this emotion can contribute to building more inclusive and compassionate communities, where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of excessive shame or embarrassment.
Etymology of VERGONHA
The word vergonha derives from the Latin term verecundia, which originally meant shame, modesty, scruple. In Old Portuguese, the term underwent phonetic changes and evolutions, eventually becoming vergonha. The Portuguese language has retained this term with its current meaning of shame or embarrassment.
