skjemmende

Skjemmende is a Norwegian adjective and present participle derived from the verb skjemme, meaning to embarrass, disgrace, or shame. It describes something that causes shame or diminishes dignity, and it can refer to conduct, appearance, or situations. The term is used in both bokmål and nynorsk and appears in formal, literary, and journalistic contexts to condemn behavior or actions that harm social standing.

Etymology and usage: Skjemme shares its root with the noun skam (shame). The suffix -ende forms a present participle and adjectives in Norwegian, producing skjemmende. It is typically used before a noun (skjemmende oppførsel) or as a predicative predicate (det var skjemmende). The word carries a stronger moral or social dimension than simply "unattractive" or "awkward."

Nuance and examples: In contemporary usage, skjemmende emphasizes social embarrassment or reputational harm rather than strictly legal or moral wrongdoing. Common synonyms include skamfull ("shameful") and nedverdigende ("degrading"), while the related term skammelig is widely used to describe something shameful. The term can appear in cultural commentary, journalism, and literary prose to condemn actions that erode dignity or public trust.

See also:

- Skam

- Skammelig

- Skjemme (verb)