opprobrious

[uh-proh-bree-uhs]

adjective

1. conveying or expressing opprobrium, as language or a speaker.

   opprobrious invectives.

   Synonyms: contemptuous, vituperative, abusive, reproachful
   Antonyms: laudatory

2. outrageously disgraceful or shameful.

   opprobrious conduct.

   Synonyms: ignominious, dishonorable
   Antonyms: reputable

opprobrious

/ əˈprəʊbrɪəs /

adjective

1. expressing scorn, disgrace, or contempt

2. shameful or infamous

Other Word Forms

• opprobriously adverb
• opprobriousness noun
• nonopprobrious adjective
• nonopprobriously adverb
• nonopprobriousness noun
• unopprobrious adjective
• unopprobriously adverb
• unopprobriousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of opprobrious¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Late Latin opprobriōsus, equivalent to Latin opprobri ( um ) opprobrium + -ōsus -ous

Example Sentences

He hated the term “black” — back then spelled with a lowercase B — which had often been an opprobrious way of talking about the people to whose fight for equality he’d devoted his life.

From New York Times

In the summer of 1903, he was charged with assaulting a man who had called his mother “opprobrious” names.

From The Guardian

Rand’s most extreme and opprobrious remarks, nevertheless, were saved for her subsequent discussion of Native Americans.

From Salon

On the other hand, you know I find it opprobrious the kind of appropriation of Dr. King’s image, iconic status and legacy for the very purposes that stood tooth-and-nail against him when he lived.

From Salon

An opprobrious response to the game's depiction of race and racial struggle, as well as other elements of narrative and structure.

From The Guardian