Embarrassment is an
emotional state of intense discomfort with oneself, experienced when having a socially unacceptable act or condition witnessed by or revealed to others. Usually some amount of loss of
honor or
dignity is involved, but how much and the type depends on the embarrassing situation. It is similar to
shame, except that shame may be experienced for an act known only to oneself. Also, embarrassment usually carries the connotation of being caused by an act that is merely socially unacceptable, rather than
morally wrong.