mortification

n. [ F., fr. L. mortificatio a killing. See Mortify. ] 1. The act of mortifying, or the condition of being mortified; especially: (a) (Med.) The death of one part of an animal body, while the rest continues to live; loss of vitality in some part of a living animal; gangrene. Dunglison. (b) (Alchem. & Old Chem.) Destruction of active qualities; neutralization. [ Obs. ] Bacon. (c) Subjection of the passions and appetites, by penance, abstinence, or painful severities inflicted on the body. [ 1913 Webster ]

The mortification of our lusts has something in it that is troublesome, yet nothing that is unreasonable. Tillotson. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Deep humiliation or shame, from a loss of pride; painful embarassment, usually arising from exposure of a mistake; chagrin; vexation. [ 1913 Webster +PJC ]

3. That which mortifies; the cause of humiliation, chagrin, or vexation. [ 1913 Webster ]

It is one of the vexatious mortifications of a studious man to have his thoughts discovered by a tedious visit. L'Estrange. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Scots Law) A gift to some charitable or religious institution; -- nearly synonymous with mortmain. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- Chagrin; vexation; shame. See Chagrin. [ 1913 Webster ]