as in embarrassment
the emotional state of being made self-consciously uncomfortable
the mortification of being dumped the night before the prom
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mortification
Springsteen’s reaction was a mix of mortification and bemusement.
—
Eric Cortellessa,
Time,
2 Apr. 2026
The comments section features a piquant blend of solemnity, mortification, tastelessness, and transphobia, which accords with Moreschi’s reception in his lifetime.
—
Dan Piepenbring,
Harpers Magazine,
27 Jan. 2026
As if unable to resist her own mortification, Leonora asks if the bed is comfortable.
—
Literary Hub,
17 Nov. 2025
The cringing mortifications and unsettling unreality make the series a tough sit.
—
Angie Han,
HollywoodReporter,
11 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for mortification
Eric Cortellessa,
Time,
2 Apr. 2026
The comments section features a piquant blend of solemnity, mortification, tastelessness, and transphobia, which accords with Moreschi’s reception in his lifetime.
—
Dan Piepenbring,
Harpers Magazine,
27 Jan. 2026
As if unable to resist her own mortification, Leonora asks if the bed is comfortable.
—
Literary Hub,
17 Nov. 2025
The cringing mortifications and unsettling unreality make the series a tough sit.
—
Angie Han,
HollywoodReporter,
11 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for mortification
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mortification
Noun
-
Goalkeeper Matt Freese’s costly blunder in the 57th minute was an embarrassment that gifted the Belgians a third goal to all but seal the elimination loss.
-
Either way, the development is a public embarrassment for Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek, whose antagonistic, foot-dragging attitude in negotiations with his young core finally cost him dearly.
Noun
-
Even though talks with the Boston Red Sox at last year’s deadline never got close, the confusion provided by an incorrect tweet announcing Ryan’s trade to New England put the pitcher at the top of every trade list before the season even began.
-
There have been confusion and contradictions in the lead up to the visit over accommodation arrangements for the Sussex family.
Noun
-
Instead, much of the rest of the soccer world will likely feel vindication – and more than a little bit of satisfaction at American humiliation on such a huge stage.
-
The iconic bunny costume moment, when Elle is tricked into showing up to a non-costume party wearing a Playboy bunny get-up, was the catalyst for exploring how Elle was able to shake that humiliation off.
Cite this Entry
“Mortification.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mortification. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
