Question:
Select the option that best expresses the synonym of the given word:
Mortify
Select the option that best expresses the synonym of the given word:
Mortify
Mortify
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Etymology link:
Mort- = death (as in mortal, mortuary).
To be mortified figuratively means to feel “dead with embarrassment”!
Mort- = death (as in mortal, mortuary).
To be mortified figuratively means to feel “dead with embarrassment”!
Updated On: Sep 4, 2026
- embarrass
- puzzle
- praise
- coax
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Concept:
Synonym identification requires analyzing the core semantic components, figurative evolutions, and affective connotations of classical verbs. The verb “mortify” possesses a rich etymological history, originating from the concept of physical death and ascetic subjugation of bodily passions, which over centuries evolved into the psychological domain to signify an intense, crushing sense of social humiliation, shame, or acute embarrassment.
Step 1: Etymological and Semantic Breakdown of “Mortify”:
- Origin: Derived from Late Latin mortificare (literally “to put to death”), compounded from mors (death) + facere (to make).
- Modern Usage: In contemporary English, to mortify means to wound someone's pride, self-respect, or dignity severely; to cause someone to feel extreme embarrassment, shame, or humiliation.
Step 2: Evaluation of Options:
- (A) Embarrass: To cause someone to feel awkward, self-conscious, ashamed, or humiliated. This is the direct and most accurate synonym of “mortify”.
- (B) Puzzle: To perplex, bewilder, or cause someone difficulty in understanding.
- (C) Praise: To express warm approval, admiration, or commendation; this represents an antonymous concept.
- (D) Coax: To persuade someone gently, gradually, or persistently by flattery or caresses.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The closest synonym to “Mortify” is “embarrass”, which corresponds to Option (A).
Synonym identification requires analyzing the core semantic components, figurative evolutions, and affective connotations of classical verbs. The verb “mortify” possesses a rich etymological history, originating from the concept of physical death and ascetic subjugation of bodily passions, which over centuries evolved into the psychological domain to signify an intense, crushing sense of social humiliation, shame, or acute embarrassment.
Step 1: Etymological and Semantic Breakdown of “Mortify”:
- Origin: Derived from Late Latin mortificare (literally “to put to death”), compounded from mors (death) + facere (to make).
- Modern Usage: In contemporary English, to mortify means to wound someone's pride, self-respect, or dignity severely; to cause someone to feel extreme embarrassment, shame, or humiliation.
Step 2: Evaluation of Options:
- (A) Embarrass: To cause someone to feel awkward, self-conscious, ashamed, or humiliated. This is the direct and most accurate synonym of “mortify”.
- (B) Puzzle: To perplex, bewilder, or cause someone difficulty in understanding.
- (C) Praise: To express warm approval, admiration, or commendation; this represents an antonymous concept.
- (D) Coax: To persuade someone gently, gradually, or persistently by flattery or caresses.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The closest synonym to “Mortify” is “embarrass”, which corresponds to Option (A).
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