Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day: “Embarrass”

Date: October 6, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Overview

In this episode, Peter Sokolowski explores the word “embarrass,” breaking down its meaning, common usage, and fascinating etymology. The episode emphasizes how our understanding of the word has evolved and encourages listeners to see embarrassment as a marker of personal growth.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Spelling

• Definition: “Embarrass” is a verb meaning to make someone feel confused and foolish in front of other people.
• Spelling: E M B A R R A S S.
  • (00:06): “Today's word is embarrass, spelled E M B A R R A S S. Embarrass is a verb. To embarrass someone is to make them feel confused and foolish in front of other people.”

2. Usage in Modern Context

• Example Sentence (from Forbes):

  • (00:17):

    "Going public creates accountability and makes backing out harder. Every creator wishes they'd started sooner. Don't let future you have the same regret. Get okay with the idea that in the future your past work will embarrass you. This means growth."

  • Insight: The sentence highlights how feelings of embarrassment about past work are often a natural part of learning and growth. The podcast suggests embracing this as a sign of progress rather than something negative.

3. The Physicality of Embarrassment

• (00:35):
  • The episode connects the emotional experience of embarrassment with physical sensations, describing being “frozen, unable to move, or like a deer in the proverbial headlights.”

4. Etymology and Historical Context

• French and Portuguese Roots:
  • Embarrass entered English in the late 16th century via French. Initially, it meant to hamper or impede someone, almost as if figuratively tying them up.
  • Ultimately, it derives from the Portuguese verb “embarazar,” which combines “em-” (prefix) and “baraza” (meaning “noose” or “rope”).
    • (00:45):

      “When embarrass first entered English from French in the late 16th century, it was used for the action of hampering or impeding the progress of someone or something, figuratively tying them up... embarrass comes ultimately from the Portuguese verb embarazar, which adds the prefix em to the noun baraza, meaning noose or rope.”

5. Obsolete and Current Senses

• Original Sense:
  • The older meanings, such as to restrict, impair, or burden, are still occasionally found but not as common.
• Contemporary Focus:
  • Today, the most frequent sense is to cause someone social discomfort or confusion.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• (00:17) – On creative growth:

  “Get okay with the idea that in the future your past work will embarrass you. This means growth.” — Peter Sokolowski (quoting Forbes)

• (00:35) – Physical effects:

  “If you've ever felt frozen, unable to move, or like a deer in the proverbial headlights when embarrassed by something, then the origins of the verb embarrass will make a great deal of sense.”

• (00:45) – Etymology explained:

  “No wonder, then, that embarrass comes ultimately from the Portuguese verb embarazar, which adds the prefix em to the noun baraza, meaning noose or rope.”

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:06 – Introduction of “embarrass” and definition
• 00:17 – Example usage and reflection on growth
• 00:35 – Description of physical sensations linked to embarrassment
• 00:45 – Historical origins and etymology

Tone & Language

Peter Sokolowski uses clear, approachable language and a gentle, encouraging tone. The episode is informative yet empathetic, reinforcing the idea that embarrassment is normal and part of personal development.

In summary: This episode gives listeners a thoughtful take on the word “embarrass,” rooting it in both linguistic history and everyday experience. It hints that feeling embarrassed is not only common but can also be a good sign—evidence of growth and progress.