reprehension

American  

[rep-ri-hen-shuhn] / ˌrɛp rɪˈhɛn ʃən /

noun

1. the act of reprehending; reproof; censure.

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reprehension British  

/ ˌrɛprɪˈhɛnʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of reprehending; reproof or rebuke

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Other Word Forms

• reprehensive adjective
• reprehensively adverb

Etymology

Origin of reprehension

1325–75; Middle English < Latin reprehēnsiōn- (stem of reprehēnsiō ), equivalent to reprehēns ( us ) (past participle of reprehendere to reprehend ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

He has maintained his position despite reprehension from his colleagues, his political party and even members of his family.

From New York Times • Jun. 23, 2022

The latest developments and move by Putin were met with reprehension by many countries around the world.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 22, 2022

And yet after three weeks of reprehension — Helen was short, Ralph cool, even the girls seemed wary of her — she began to feel her attitude weakening.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen

Reprehension is supposed to be calm and just, and with good intent; it is therefore a serious matter, however mild, and is capable of great force, as expressed in the phrase severe reprehension.

From English Synonyms and Antonyms With Notes on the Correct Use of Prepositions by Fernald, James Champlin

In the conduct of this Society, there was an act of injustice to Mr. Robbins which, in my view of it, deserves reprehension.

From Recollections of Windsor Prison; Containing Sketches of its History and Discipline with Appropriate Strictures and Moral and Religious Reflection by Reynolds, John N.