Vergognare

Vergognare is an Italian verb that translates to "to shame" or "to make ashamed" in English. It describes the act of causing someone to feel a sense of embarrassment, disgrace, or humiliation. The root of the word is "vergogna," which means shame or disgrace.

The verb can be used in various contexts. It can refer to a direct action intended to embarrass someone, such as exposing their faults or making them feel inadequate. For example, one might say "Mi hai vergognato davanti a tutti" which means "You shamed me in front of everyone." It can also describe the feeling of shame itself, often in a reflexive form like "vergognarsi," meaning "to be ashamed."

The concept of vergognare is deeply intertwined with social norms and personal honor in Italian culture. Feeling vergogna can be a powerful motivator to conform to societal expectations or to correct one's behavior. Conversely, the act of vergognare someone can be seen as a severe social sanction. The intensity of the shame experienced can range from mild embarrassment to profound humiliation, depending on the individual, the context, and the perceived severity of the cause for shame.