reprove

re·prove

verb \ri-ˈprüv\

re·provedre·prov·ing

Definition of REPROVE

transitive verb

1

: to scold or correct usually gently or with kindly intent

2

: to express disapproval of : censure <it is not for me to reprove popular taste — D. W. Brogan>

3

obsolete : disprove, refute

4

obsolete : convince, convict

intransitive verb

: to express rebuke or reproof

— re·prov·er noun

— re·prov·ing·ly \-ˈprü-viŋ-lē\ adverb

Examples of REPROVE

1. The teacher reproved the student for being late.
2. <my piano teacher often reproves me for slouching while playing, observing that good posture helps one play better>

Origin of REPROVE

Middle English repreven, reproven, from Anglo-French reprover, from Late Latin reprobare to disapprove, condemn, from Latin re- + probare to test, approve — more at prove

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to REPROVE

Synonyms: admonish, chide, reprimand, reproach, rebuke, tick off

Antonyms: cite, commend, endorse (also indorse)

Related Words: berate, castigate, chew out, dress down, flay, harangue, jaw, keelhaul, lambaste (or lambast), lecture, rail (at or against), rate, scold, score, upbraid; abuse, assail, attack, bad-mouth, blame, blast, censure, condemn, criticize, crucify, denounce, dis (also diss) [slang], excoriate, fault, knock, lash, pan, reprehend, slam; belittle, deprecate, disparage, minimize, mock, put down; deride, ridicule, scoff, scorn

Near Antonyms: approve, endorse (also indorse), OK (or okay), sanction; applaud, extol (also extoll), hail, laud, praise, salute, tout

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Synonym Discussion of REPROVE

reprove, rebuke, reprimand, admonish, reproach, chide mean to criticize adversely. reprove implies an often kindly intent to correct a fault <gently reproved my table manners>. rebuke suggests a sharp or stern reproof <the papal letter rebuked dissenting clerics>. reprimand implies a severe, formal, often public or official rebuke <reprimanded by the ethics committee>. admonish suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel <admonished by my parents to control expenses>. reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding <reproached him for tardiness> <chided by their mother for untidiness>.

Rhymes with REPROVE

approve, behoove, commove, disprove, improve, remove