noun
the world; society; people; the public
Honorific term for 'the world' or 'society', often used sarcastically to refer to public opinion or what others might think. Carries a tone of deference mixed with irony.
See also: 世間
世間様は厳しいから、失敗は許されない。
The world is harsh, so mistakes are not forgiven.
世間様に顔向けできないことをしてしまった。
I've done something I can't face the public for.
世間 is the neutral term for 'society' or 'the world'. 世間様 adds the honorific 様, making it more respectful or sarcastic depending on context.
Compound of 世間 (seken, 'world, society') and the honorific suffix 様 (sama). The exact origin of the sarcastic usage is uncertain, but it likely developed from the exaggerated politeness of referring to society as if it were a person of high status.