obloquy

American  

[ob-luh-kwee] / ˈɒb lə kwi /

noun

plural

obloquies

1. censure, blame, or abusive language aimed at a person or thing, especially by numerous persons or by the general public.

   Synonyms:

   revilement, aspersion, calumny, reproach

   Antonyms:

   praise

2. discredit, disgrace, or bad repute resulting from public blame, abuse, or denunciation.

   Antonyms:

   credit

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obloquy British  

/ ˈɒbləkwɪ /

noun

1. defamatory or censorious statements, esp when directed against one person

2. disgrace brought about by public abuse

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Other Word Forms

• obloquial adjective

Etymology

Origin of obloquy

1425–75; late Middle English < Late Latin obloquium contradiction, equivalent to Latin obloqu ( ī ) to contradict ( ob- ob- + loquī to speak) + -ium -ium

Example Sentences

Young scientists are naturally reluctant to expose themselves to anti-science obloquy; the straitened condition of the national press has led to mass layoffs of journalists with the knowledge and skill to communicate scientific truths.

From Los Angeles Times

The statements made by the D.A.’s office, the complaint alleges, made Thomas “the object of obloquy and ridicule.”

From Los Angeles Times

That’s a shame, because the airline’s 11 outside directors are arguably the guiltiest of the guilty parties in the company’s recent fiasco, the most deserving of obloquy.

From Los Angeles Times

Yes, the presidency was a thankless job, “a most unpleasant seat, full of thorns, briars, thistles, murmuring, fault-finding, calumny, obloquy.”

From Literature

Moreover, their statements came after they had sustained public obloquy for their silence.

From Los Angeles Times