abasement

UK //ɐbˈeɪsmənt// abase·ment

1 humiliation or loss of status (n.)
C2 Proficiency Formal Literary

the act of making someone feel very ashamed or less important, or the feeling of being treated this way.

the act of humbling or degrading someone; the state of being lowered in rank, office, or social estimation.

Example

He could not bear the public abasement of having to apologize for his mistakes.

Example

The treaty was seen by the citizens as a total national abasement, stripping the country of its dignity and its most vital territories.

Usage

Often used in the context of self-abasement, referring to the act of humbling oneself excessively.

Teacher's tip

This is a high-register word; in everyday conversation, learners should use 'humiliation' or 'shame' instead.

Origin

From Middle English abaissement, from Middle French abaissement (“astonishment”). Equivalent to abase + -ment. Compare French abaissement.

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