obloquy

[ob-luh-kwee]

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

obloquy

/ ˈɒbləkwɪ /

noun

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

2. disgrace brought about by public abuse

Other Word Forms

• obloquial adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of obloquy¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of obloquy¹

C15: from Latin obloquium contradiction, from ob- against + loquī to speak

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.

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

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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.

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

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

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