reproval

/rɪˈpruvəl/

Other forms: reprovals

When you criticize or reprimand someone, you express reproval. Your parents' reproval will be understandable if you borrow their car without asking and then drive it into a tree.

A judge may convey her reproval to a defendant who's found guilty with an especially harsh sentence. Your reproval of your dog for chewing your new shoes could take the form of an angry expression on your face, and a stern, "No!" The noun reproval comes from the verb reprove, "reprimand," from the Late Latin root reprobare, "disapprove, reject, or condemn."

Definitions of reproval

1. noun

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

   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