recrimination

American  

[ri-krim-uh-ney-shuhn] / rɪˌkrɪm əˈneɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of recriminating, or countercharging.

   Hope gave way to recrimination with both sides claiming the moral high ground.

2. a countercharge.

   The poll suggests that the public is frustrated by the bickering and recriminations.

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recrimination British  

/ rɪˌkrɪmɪˈneɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of recriminating

2. law a charge made by an accused against his accuser; countercharge

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Other Word Forms

• self-recrimination noun

Etymology

Origin of recrimination

First recorded in 1580–90; from Middle French, from Late Latin recrimination-, stem of recriminatio “criticism,” equivalent to Medieval Latin recrīmināt(us), past participle of recrīminārī “to accuse in turn” + -iō -ion ( def. ); recriminate ( def. )

Example Sentences

Though Tom is guilty of no actual wrongdoing, the dean has asked him to take a leave of absence to let any possible recriminations blow over.

From The Wall Street Journal

That led to a resignation and recriminations at the top of Israel's military and political establishment.

From BBC

At 2-0 down in this Ashes series, anything other than a win over Australia in Adelaide will lead to a lot of recrimination on the journey to Melbourne, Sydney and beyond.

From BBC

It is England's batting that will cause the biggest recrimination.

From BBC

Guilt, recrimination and blame won’t help now, and it can be counterproductive.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• allegation
• complaint
• denunciation
• impeachment
• indictment