What is ignominious? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of ignominious

ignominiousadjective

phi thường

/ˌɪɡnəˈmɪniəs//ˌɪɡnəˈmɪniəs/

Where does the word ignominious come from?

The word "ignominious" originated in Latin language during the Renaissance era. The Latin word "ignominiosus" literally translates to "bringing shame" or "without honor." However, the prefix "in" in "ignominious" changes its meaning to "not" or "without." Therefore, "ignominious" can be translated to "not bringing honor" or "lacking honor." This word originally referred to actions that would bring disgrace or dishonor to a person's reputation or social status. Examples of such actions may include failure in high office or losing a military battle. Over time, the usage of "ignominious" broadened to describe any shameful or disgraceful event or state of affairs. Today, it is commonly used in literature, conversational English, and various other written and spoken forms to denote a state of dishonor, disrepute, or humiliation.

Vocabulary summary ignominious

typeadjective

meaningevil, vile, despicable

examplean ignominious hehaviour: a vile act

meaningdisgrace, disgrace

examplean ignominious defeat

Example of vocabulary ignominiousnamespace

  • The disgraced politician faced ignominious defeat in the recent elections.
  • The business mogul's downfall was marked by a series of ignominious scandals.
  • After the embarrassing incident at the awards ceremony, the actress fled the stage in ignominious defeat.
  • The athlete's former accolades were humiliatingly stripped from her, leaving her with only her ignominious name left.
  • The once-proud military base now lies in ruins, a testament to its ignominious history.

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