Entry Word: reprove

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to criticize (someone) usually gently so as to correct a fault <my piano teacher often reproves me for slouching while playing, observing that good posture helps one play better> — see rebuke 1
2 to express public or formal disapproval of <the principal reproved the hockey team for their display of poor sportsmanship on the ice and ordered that a letter of apology be sent to the other school> — see censure 1
3 to hold an unfavorable opinion of <my parents reprove my taste in music> — see disapprove