Mortification

Mortification is a profound sense of embarrassment, shame, or humiliation. It stems from a perceived loss of dignity, self-respect, or social standing. It can result from a public blunder, the realization of a personal flaw, or a situation that exposes one's vulnerability. The intensity of mortification can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to deep emotional distress and can significantly impact a person's self-esteem and social interactions. Often involves feelings of inadequacy, powerlessness, or exposure.

Mortification meaning with examples

• Sarah experienced mortification when she tripped and spilled coffee on the CEO during the company's presentation. The entire room witnessed her clumsy mistake, leaving her mortified and wishing the ground would swallow her whole. She couldn't bring herself to make eye contact with anyone.
• John’s mortification was immense after he mistakenly sent a private message to his entire contact list. The deeply personal confession of his infatuation, now available to all, filled him with a wave of shame and regret that he could not escape. It was the beginning of what felt like his professional downfall.
• The actress’s mortification grew during the live interview as a photo of a questionable past relationship unexpectedly flashed on the screen. The sudden and unavoidable public display of an embarrassing secret made her face flush red and she felt the urge to flee the set.
• Mark felt mortification when his childhood friend revealed a particularly silly nickname in front of his colleagues at a work event. The revelation, coupled with the laughter of his coworkers, was a source of deep embarrassment, making him want to disappear from the scene.
• After realizing his inappropriate comment was broadcast to the school auditorium, the teacher experienced extreme mortification. He now questioned his judgment, wishing he could rewind time and undo the incident, which left him feeling utterly exposed and humiliated.