Humiliate

Humiliate (verb) refers to the act of causing someone to feel ashamed, embarrassed, or degraded, often in front of others. This term implies a loss of dignity or self-respect and can occur through various means, including direct insults, public ridicule, or actions that undermine an individual's status or reputation. The act of humiliation may result from intentional cruelty or thoughtless behavior and can have lasting emotional effects on the victim.

Humiliate meaning with examples

• During the team meeting, the manager publicly pointed out several mistakes made by Alex, which left him feeling humiliated in front of his colleagues. Alex had worked diligently on the project, and the manager's harsh critique not only embarrassed him but also undermined his confidence in his abilities. The incident served as a reminder of how important it is for leaders to provide constructive feedback without belittling their team members.
• At the school assembly, the principal took a moment to humiliate one of the students for failing to complete his homework. Instead of addressing the issue privately, the principal's remarks were loud and cutting, making the student feel small and ashamed in front of his peers. The student left the assembly feeling hurt and demoralized, highlighting how public shaming can lead to long-lasting damage to self-esteem and overall well-being.
• During the family gathering, one relative made a disparaging remark about Mark's choice of career, implying that he had wasted his potential. The comment shocked everyone, but most remained silent, leaving Mark feeling humiliated and defensive. Such situations illustrate the impact of casual cruelty within personal relationships, emphasizing the need for empathy and sensitivity to others' feelings, even if the intent is not malicious.
• In a competitive sports match, the coach's decision to call out a player for missing a crucial play was meant to motivate, but it instead humiliated the player in front of the team. The negative attention shifted the focus from teamwork to individual mistakes, creating a sense of anxiety rather than encouragement. This scenario demonstrates how the way criticism is delivered can significantly affect a player's morale and team dynamics.