What does ignominious mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪˌnɪmɪˈnaʊʃəs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Characterized by shame, dishonor, or ignominy; bringing shame or reproach.

Etymology

The word “ignominious” comes from the Latin words “ignis,” meaning “ash,” and “ominis,” meaning “of the gods.” In English, it has been used since the 15th century to describe actions or events that bring shame or dishonor.

Usage Notes

Ignominious is often used to describe a shameful or humiliating experience, such as a public failure or a embarrassing situation.

Cultural References

• In Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet,” the character Tybalt is killed by Romeo in an ignominious defeat.
• In the TV show “The Office,” the character Michael Scott is shown to be embarrassed by a series of ignominious events throughout the series.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To meet with ignominy
• To be shamed

Related Words or Phrases

• Shameful
• Dishonorable
• Egregious

Frequency of Use

Ignominious is a less commonly used word in modern language, but it can still be found in formal writing and literature to convey strong emotions of shame or embarrassment.

Common Misspellings

• Ignominus
• Ignominusly