curtain lecture

noun

1. Older Use. a scolding administered in private by a wife to her husband.

curtain lecture

noun

1. a scolding or rebuke given in private, esp by a wife to her husband

Word History and Origins

Origin of curtain lecture¹

First recorded in 1625–35

Word History and Origins

Origin of curtain lecture¹

alluding to the curtained beds where such rebukes were once given

Example Sentences

The curtain lecture was followed next day by a refusal to allow Mr. Sheridan to have the horses till the account was settled.

From Project Gutenberg

We have reason to believe that there was never even a curtain-lecture delivered on the subject of the purse-silk.

From Project Gutenberg

The tintinnabulations of the wife's curtain lecture are too precious to the enraptured husband to be shared with other ears.

From Project Gutenberg

Eleanore teased, and he was gruff; or he mocked, and Eleanore delivered a curtain lecture.

From Project Gutenberg

This is her plan to make me listen to a curtain-lecture in her room.

From Project Gutenberg