Stigma
mediumNegative toneSTIG-muh
noun
Definition
a mark of disgrace or shame
Memory hook
STIGMA: imagine a glowing STIG-MArk branded on someone's forehead announcing their shame to everyone who passes.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The campaign sought to remove the stigma long attached to seeking therapy.”
“A single conviction left a stigma that followed him through every job interview.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The campaign sought to remove the ______ long attached to seeking therapy.”
Show answer
stigma
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Stigma is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "disgrace" or "stain" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "honor".
Related GRE Words
tarnish
to spoil or damage (a reputation); to dull a surface's luster
adulterate
To make something poorer in quality by adding another substance
caustic
bitingly sarcastic or sharply critical (also chemically corrosive)
condone
to overlook, forgive, or tacitly approve of an offense
derivative
unoriginal; imitative of someone else's work
eminent
Famous and respected within a particular field; outstanding
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