embarrassing
/ɪmˈbæɹ.ə.sɪŋ/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: embarrassings
Sense 1
Meaning · English
The action of the verb to embarrass; embarrassment.
Noun
Examples
May 11, 1715, Robert Wodrow, letter to Mrs Wodrow
It seemed, at first, to be agreed, that the King should be addressed by the Assembly; but the time of presenting, because of the present embarrassings of affairs, to be left to the Commission.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Causing embarrassment; leading to a feeling of uncomfortable shame or self-consciousness.
Adjective
Examples
The story struck the depressingly familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen. No one queried it. It was in the classic pattern of human weakness, mean and embarrassing and sad.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “embarrassing” mean?
The action of the verb to embarrass; embarrassment.
Is “embarrassing” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.