mortification

noun

ˌmȯr-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce mortification (audio)
Definition of mortificationnext
as in embarrassment
the emotional state of being made self-consciously uncomfortable the mortification of being dumped the night before the prom

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mortification Monica’s mortification that summer of ’98 forms the backbone of Julia Langbein’s latest novel Dear Monica Lewinsky, out this month from Doubleday. — Lilyanna D'amato, ARTnews.com, 26 Apr. 2026 Springsteen’s reaction was a mix of mortification and bemusement. — Eric Cortellessa, Time, 2 Apr. 2026 The comments section features a piquant blend of solemnity, mortification, tastelessness, and transphobia, which accords with Moreschi’s reception in his lifetime. — Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026 As if unable to resist her own mortification, Leonora asks if the bed is comfortable. — Literary Hub, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mortification
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mortification
  1. embarrassment
  2. confusion
  3. humiliation
Noun
  • For the Indian government, the scandal was seen by some a political embarrassment, triggering protests by the opposition.
    — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Amy Edmondson’s work on psychological safety has helped leaders understand why employees need to be able to raise concerns, admit mistakes, and ask questions without fear of punishment or embarrassment.
    — Brian Eason, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of embarrassment
Noun
  • Clear terms keep care from turning into confusion later on today.
    — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The confusion comes from treating two different problems as one.
    — Dr. Aditya Vikram Kashyap, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of confusion
Noun
  • The humiliation and fear leave many victims feeling alone and unsure of where to go.
    — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Anger, betrayal, humiliation and the desire to expose the truth are all normal reactions.
    — Jann Blackstone, Boston Herald, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of humiliation

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morticians
mortification
mortifications
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Cite this Entry

“Mortification.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mortification. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mortification

Nglish: Translation of mortification for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mortification

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