abash

Word family

• abashed
  adjectiveC2
• abashment
  nounC2
• unabashed
  adjectiveC2
• unabashedly
  adverbC2

Synonym discussion

Sense: verb/1

Abash, embarrass, disconcert, and fluster all describe upsetting someone's composure, but they are not identical. Embarrass is the broad everyday word for making someone feel awkward or ashamed. Abash is more literary and usually suggests a sudden check to someone's confidence, often after praise, a blunt question, or public attention. Disconcert focuses less on shame and more on being unsettled or thrown off balance. Fluster often describes brief confusion that makes someone rush, forget words, or lose order. Mortify is stronger and points to deeper shame. A surprise compliment may abash a shy student, while a travel mix-up is more likely to fluster a tired passenger.

Common collocations

Etymology

English borrowed abash in the late Middle English period from Old French esbahir, a verb meaning to astonish or throw into confusion. Over time, the English word narrowed from general shock to the more specific idea of making someone lose confidence or feel embarrassed in front of other people.