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Definitions

shameful

[sheym-fuhl] / ˈʃeɪm fəl /
ADJECTIVE
atrocious; disreputable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
dastardly disgraceful embarrassing flagrant heinous humiliating ignominious immoral indecent outrageous reprehensible scandalous shocking sinful vile
WEAK
base carnal contemptible corrupt debauched degrading diabolical dishonorable drunken immodest impure infamous intemperate lewd low mean mortifying notorious obscene opprobrious profligate reprobate ribald shaming unbecoming unclean unworthy villainous vulgar wicked
Antonyms
STRONGEST
chaste good kind magnificent mild moral pure respectable virtuous wonderful
WEAK
reputable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Together they sketched out the story’s framework: a murder mystery set in a small town replete with shameful secrets and sinister magic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“It’s shameful that in many cases we are leaving people on their own during the worst migration crisis that we have confronted,” the veteran diplomat said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

In his post-match news conference, Morocco coach Walid Regragui said Senegal's actions were "shameful" and do not "honour Africa".

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

“It can be stressful or shameful for each of them,” said Ellen Rogin, the author of “Messages from Money,” a book about emotions and finances.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 5, 2026

I delayed meeting him until finally, it would have been too shameful to resist any longer.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling

Vocabulary lists containing shameful

"The Right to Love"

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