‘无耻’ (wú chǐ) literally means 'without shame' — 无 (wú) meaning 'without' and 耻 (chǐ) meaning 'shame' or 'sense of disgrace'. It is an adjective describing someone who lacks moral conscience, shows no embarrassment for morally wrong or socially unacceptable behavior, and often acts with brazen disregard for others’ feelings or societal norms.

This word carries strong negative connotation and is commonly used in criticism, journalism, or heated arguments. It’s more forceful than simply 'impolite' or 'rude' — it implies a deep ethical failure. While it can describe actions (e.g., 无耻的行为), it most frequently modifies people (e.g., 无耻之徒) or serves as a predicate adjective (e.g., 他真无耻). It’s not used lightly; in formal or polite speech, milder alternatives like 不礼貌 or 缺乏教养 are preferred.