reproof

/rɪˈpruf/

Other forms: reproofs; reproofed; reproofing

A reproof is a negative comment, reprimand, or rebuke. Even the nicest kindergarten teacher in the world will give his students a reproof if they won't stop laughing and running around the classroom.

An athlete's bad behavior on or off the field might result in a reproof by his coach. and a long-distance bus driver will offer at least a mild reproof if a passenger is continuously talking loudly into her cell phone. Kids with strict parents receive more reproofs than those who have fewer rules to follow. Reproof comes from the Late Latin reprobāre, which means "disapprove, reject, or condemn."

Definitions of reproof

1. noun

   an act or expression of criticism and censure
   synonyms: rebuke, reprehension, reprimand, reproval

   types:

   riot act

   a vigorous reprimand

   chiding, objurgation, scolding, tongue-lashing

   rebuking a person harshly

   what for

   a strong reprimand

   bawling out, castigation, chewing out, dressing down, earful, going-over, upbraiding

   a severe scolding

   berating, blowing up

   a severe rebuke

   reproach

   a mild rebuke or criticism

   lecture, speech, talking to

   a lengthy rebuke

   chastening, chastisement, correction

   a rebuke for making a mistake

   admonishment, admonition, monition

   a firm rebuke

   preaching, sermon

   a moralistic rebuke

   wig, wigging

   British slang for a scolding

   self-reproach, self-reproof

   the act of blaming yourself

   blame, rap

   a reproach for some lapse or misdeed

   curtain lecture

   a private lecture to a husband by his wife

   type of:

   criticism, unfavorable judgment

   disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings
2. verb

   censure severely or angrily
   synonyms: bawl out, berate, call down, call on the carpet, chew out, chew up, chide, dress down, have words, jaw, lambast, lambaste, lecture, rag, rebuke, remonstrate, reprimand, scathe, scold, take to task, trounce, vituperate

   types:

   castigate, chasten, chastise, correct, objurgate

   censure severely

   brush down, tell off

   reprimand

   flame

   criticize harshly, usually via an electronic medium

   type of:

   criticise, criticize, knock, pick apart

   find fault with; express criticism of; point out real or perceived flaws