curtain lecture

American  

noun

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

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curtain lecture British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of curtain lecture

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

The curtain lecture that followed was of unusual virulence, and in the midst of it he fell asleep.

From Toaster's Handbook Jokes, Stories, and Quotations by Fanning, C. E. (Clara Elizabeth)

She looked as amazed as we did, and I’ve no doubt gave him a sound curtain lecture on his folly that night.

From How to Cook Husbands by Worthington, Elizabeth Strong

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

Mrs. Caudle herself would scarcely hazard a curtain lecture with this atrocious alternative in prospect.

From Satires And Profanities by Foote, G. W. (George William)

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)