Langimage
English

humiliate

|hu-mil-i-ate|

B2

🇺🇸

/hjuːˈmɪliˌeɪt/

🇬🇧

/hjuːˈmɪlieɪt/

to shame

Etymology
Etymology Information

'humiliate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'humiliare,' where 'humilis' meant 'low or humble.'

Historical Evolution

'humiliare' transformed into the French word 'humilier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'humiliate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make low or humble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make someone feel ashamed or foolish.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make someone feel ashamed or foolish by injuring their dignity and self-respect.

The teacher humiliated the student in front of the whole class.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35