self-disgust
UK[ˌself dɪsˈɡʌst]US[ˌself dɪsˈɡʌst]
n
A strong feeling of dislike and disapproval that you have for yourself, often because you have done something you think is shameful or wrong.
Morpheme Breakdown
self
dis
gust
self
own
dis
opposite
gust
taste
Etymology
The word is a modern English compound formed from native and classical elements. The core component, 'disgust,' originates from the Latin 'disgustus,' meaning "bad taste," combining 'dis-' (expressing negation) and 'gustus' (taste). This evolved through Old French into English, where its meaning broadened from a physical revulsion to a strong feeling of aversion. The prefix 'self-,' of Germanic origin, was attached to create a reflexive term, specifying that the intense feeling of loathing and distaste is directed inward, toward one's own person or actions.
Analysis
Structure: self (own) + dis (opposite) + gust (taste)
self: Old English, meaning "one's own person." It functions as a prefix indicating reference to oneself.
dis: Latin, a prefix expressing negation, reversal, or removal.
gust: Latin (gustus), meaning "taste." In this compound, it functions metaphorically as "feeling" or "relish."
Examples
After the argument, she was filled with self-disgust for her harsh words.
His constant self-disgust prevented him from accepting any form of praise.
The therapist helped him work through the deep-seated self-disgust that followed his failure.