First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
abash
verb \ə-ˈbash\
Definition of ABASH
transitive verb
: to destroy the self-possession or self-confidence of : disconcert
— abash·ment \-mənt\ noun
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Origin of ABASH
Middle English abaishen, from Anglo-French abaiss-, abair to astonish, alteration of esbair, from ex- + baer to open wide, gape — more at abeyance
Related to ABASH
Synonym Discussion of ABASH
embarrass, discomfit, abash, disconcert, rattle mean to distress by confusing or confounding. embarrass implies some influence that impedes thought, speech, or action <embarrassed to admit that she liked the movie>. discomfit implies a hampering or frustrating accompanied by confusion <hecklers discomfited the speaker>. abash presupposes some initial self-confidence that receives a sudden check, producing shyness, shame, or a feeling of inferiority <abashed by her swift and cutting retort>. disconcert implies an upsetting of equanimity or assurance producing uncertainty or hesitancy <disconcerted by finding so many in attendance>. rattle implies an agitation that impairs thought and judgment <rattled by all the television cameras>.
Rhymes with ABASH
ABASHED Defined for Kids
abash
verb \ə-ˈbash\
abashedabash·ing
Definition of ABASH for Kids
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