penaud
sheepish
Definition & meaning
The adjective penaud describes someone who is feeling embarrassed, sheepish, or awkward, typically after being caught in a mistake, a lie, or after failing at something. It conveys a sense of feeling foolish or "let down" because one's pride has been wounded.
It is most commonly used in the phrase rester penaud, which translates to "to look sheepish" or "to be left feeling foolish."
Grammar & Word origin
Grammar:
- Part of speech: Adjective.
- Gender/Number: It is an invariable adjective in terms of spelling (it does not change for the feminine), though historically some authors added an 'e' for the feminine form (penaude). Modern usage generally treats it as a single form.
Word origin: The word dates back to the 14th century. It is derived from the Old French peine (pain, suffering) and the suffix -aud (which often carries a pejorative or derogatory connotation). Etymologically, it implies someone who is "punished" or "in pain" due to their shame.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Honteux (ashamed)
- Confus (confused or embarrassed)
- Déconfit (disconcerted/crestfallen)
- Abasourdi (stunned)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Le petit garçon reste penaud devant son père.adjective
The little boy remains sheepish in front of his father.
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