n.
Pronunciation: ˌ mo ̇ r-t ə -f ə - ' k ā -sh ə n
Function: noun
Date: 14th century
1 : the subjection and denial of bodily passions and appetites by abstinence or self-inflicted pain or discomfort
2 : NECROSIS , GANGRENE
3 a : a sense of humiliation and shame caused by something that wounds one's pride or self-respect b : the cause of such humiliation or shame