惭赧 (cán nǎn) is a literary, two-character noun expressing a deep, self-conscious feeling of shame or embarrassment—often arising from moral awareness, personal inadequacy, or social misstep. The first character 惭 means 'to feel remorseful or ashamed'—emphasizing an internal moral judgment—while 赧 means 'to blush or turn red with shame', highlighting the visible, physical reaction. Together, they form a compound that conveys both the inner guilt and outward sign of humiliation, commonly found in classical poetry, historical narratives, and formal written Chinese.

This term carries a refined, somewhat archaic tone and is rarely used in casual speech. It evokes a quiet, dignified discomfort—not anger or defiance—but humility and regret. Writers use it to portray characters reflecting on ethical lapses, unmet expectations, or socially awkward moments where conscience and appearance align in vulnerability. Its elegance makes it especially effective in describing subtle emotional shifts in literary or rhetorical contexts.