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Definition of shamefully

shamefully

/ˈʃeɪm.fə.li/
shame · ful · ly
Adjective:shameful
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shamefully Lexical Profile

shamefully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that causes or deserves shame, disgrace, or strong moral disapproval.

Example

"The historical monument had been shamefully neglected by the local authorities for decades."

2

With a feeling of shame, guilt, or embarrassment; sheepishly.

Example

"He looked down shamefully when asked about the missing funds."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for shamefully
Antonyms
View all antonyms for shamefully

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'shamefully' with 'ashamedly'; 'shamefully' means in a disgraceful manner that deserves condemnation, whereas 'ashamedly' means with a personal feeling of guilt or embarrassment.

• Rhymes for shamefully

• Nearby Words

shamefaced
shamefacedly
shameful
shamefully
shamefulness
shameless
shamelessly

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'scamfullice', derived from 'scamu' (shame, dishonor) combined with the adjectival suffix '-ful' and adverbial suffix '-lice' (-ly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shamefully. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shamefully
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