Self-conscious embarrassment
Sheepish
Also known as abashed, chagrined, discomfited
Strength 2 of 4
A rueful, half-smiling embarrassment at your own small blunder, already owning it, hoping it will be taken lightly.
In the body
- A lopsided, apologetic grin
- Head ducked slightly
- A hand rubbing the back of the neck
Needs behind it
When these needs are met
When these needs aren’t met
Softer and stronger
- Awkward
- Self-conscious
- Shy
- Embarrassed
- Flustered
- Sheepish
- Mortified
Often confused with
Embarrassed
Sheepish is a mild, half-smiling embarrassment at your own small blunder, already owned; embarrassed has more heat and a stronger wish for the moment to pass.