羞耻 (xiū chǐ) is a compound noun meaning 'shame' or 'disgrace' — a deep, painful feeling of embarrassment or moral discomfort caused by one's own actions, failures, or perceived shortcomings. The first character 羞 (xiū) originally meant 'to feel embarrassed' or 'to blush', evoking physical signs of shame; the second character 耻 (chǐ) means 'dishonor' or 'moral disgrace', emphasizing social or ethical judgment. Together, they form a stronger, more formal and weighty term than 羞 (xiū) alone, often implying a violation of social norms or personal values.

This word is commonly used in serious contexts — moral reflection, public criticism, psychological discussion, or historical narratives — rather than casual speech. It carries a solemn, sometimes literary tone and is frequently found in written Chinese, formal speeches, or discussions about ethics and accountability. While it can describe personal feelings ('I feel shame'), it often points to an objective state of dishonor ('a source of shame') that invites social censure or self-reproach.