chasten
verb (used with object)
to inflict suffering upon for purposes of moral improvement; chastise.
chastening
-
present participleof chasten.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They followed that up with a chastening 4-1 defeat away to world champions Spain but were still level on points with Thomas Tuchel's Three Lions before Saturday's humiliating loss in Rijeka.
From BBC ● Oct. 4, 2026
There have also been a spate of injuries to key players, but Jaissle has only lost one of his opening seven matches in all competitions, a chastening 4-1 defeat at Leeds United.
From BBC ● Oct. 1, 2026
England suffered a chastening pre-T20 World Cup defeat as they were completely outplayed by India in a 38-run defeat in Chelmsford.
From BBC ● May 28, 2026
The genius needed chastening, and in “Steve Jobs in Exile” you can witness it happening, sometimes day by day.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 17, 2026
Isaac was laughing, but Patrick raised a chastening finger and said, “Augustus, please. Let’s return to you and your struggles. You said you fear oblivion?”
From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green
