mindmap root((耻辱)) stigma may imply dishonor or public shame: tried to avoid the ~ of bankruptcy; but more often it applies to a negative attitude or judgment attached to something in order to bring discredit or disapproval: the increasing ~ attached to smoking in the workplace. brand carries stronger implications of disgrace and infamy and may suggest the impossibility of removal or concealment or the resulting social ostracism and public condemnation: bore the ~ of corruption and deceit. blot, stain imply a blemish that diminishes but does not extinguish the honor of a name or reputation: a ~ on the family name(blot); wanted there to be no ~ on her record.