mortification
NounOpen English WordNet
Noun (4)
- strong feelings of embarrassmentSynonyms: chagrinhumiliationType of embarrassment
- the localized death of living cells (as from infection or the interruption of blood supply)Synonyms: necrosisgangrenesphacelusType of deathKinds myonecrosis
- an instance in which you are caused to lose your prestige or self-respect“he had to undergo one humiliation after another”Synonyms: humiliationType of case, instance
- (Christianity) the act of mortifying the lusts of the flesh by self-denial and privation (especially by bodily pain or discomfort inflicted on yourself)Type of self-denial, self-discipline
What does it mean? Question 1 of today’s quiz
Webster's Dictionary (1913)
Origin: F., fr. L. mortificatio a killing. See Mortify.
1. The act of mortifying, or the condition of being mortified; especially: (a) Medicine The death of one part of an animal body, while the rest continues to live; loss of vitality in some part of a living animal; gangrene. Dunglison, Robley (b) Alchem. & Old Chem. Destruction of active qualities; neutralization. obsolete Francis, Baron Verulam Bacon (c) Subjection of the passions and appetites, by penance, abstinence, or painful severities inflicted on the body.
The mortification of our lusts has something in it that is troublesome, yet nothing that is unreasonable.— John Tilllotson
2. Deep humiliation or shame, from a loss of pride; painful embarassment, usually arising from exposure of a mistake; chagrin; vexation.
3. That which mortifies; the cause of humiliation, chagrin, or vexation.
It is one of the vexatious mortifications of a studious man to have his thoughts discovered by a tedious visit.— Sir Roger L'Estrange
4. Scots law A gift to some charitable or religious institution; — nearly synonymous with mortmain.
Synonyms: Chagrin; vexation; shame. See Chagrin.
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54 · with additions: +PJC