curtain lecture

American  

noun

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

---

curtain lecture British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of curtain lecture

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

curtain lecture

The constant complaints he was hitherto obliged to endure, will grow mute for ever, and the curtain lecture will be no more.

From By Water to the Columbian Exposition by Wisthaler, Johanna S.

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

From The Wits and Beaux of Society Volume 2 by Wharton, Philip

Is it in so numerous a company as this that one proceeds to indulge in a family explanation, or gives a curtain lecture to a young girl?

From Garrick's Pupil by Filon, Auguston

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

From The Goose Man by Porterfield, Allen Wilson

Then he turned his steps again homeward, with a clearer head and heavier heart than when he refused to enter, in fear of what he called a "curtain lecture."

From The Two Wives Or, Lost and Won by Arthur, T. S. (Timothy Shay)