ignominy
What does "ignominy" mean?
Ignominy refers to a state of deep public shame, disgrace, or dishonor. It carries a heavy weight, suggesting not just a personal failure, but one that is visible to the world and results in a total loss of reputation or standing. You will most often encounter this word in historical accounts, formal journalism, or literature when describing a downfall. It is stronger than "embarrassment"—it implies a moral stain or a humiliating defeat that is hard to recover from.
"ignominy" in conversation
Discussing a political scandal
The senator's resignation was filled with ignominy after the evidence surfaced.
The senator's resignation was filled with ignominy after the evidence surfaced.
He went from a national hero to a total disgrace in just one week.
He went from a national hero to a total disgrace in just one week.
Used to describe a very public and damaging fall from grace.
Reading a history book
The army retreated in ignominy, leaving their supplies behind.
The army retreated in ignominy, leaving their supplies behind.
So it was a total defeat rather than a tactical withdrawal?
So it was a total defeat rather than a tactical withdrawal?
Highlights the shameful nature of a military or competitive failure.
"ignominy" in a sentence
The team faced the ignominy of losing every game in the season.
The team faced the ignominy of losing every game in the season.
He chose to resign rather than suffer the ignominy of being fired publicly.
He chose to resign rather than suffer the ignominy of being fired publicly.
The treaty was seen by the citizens as an act of national ignominy.
The treaty was seen by the citizens as an act of national ignominy.
