reprove

American  

[ri-proov] / rɪˈpruv /

verb (used with object)

reproved, reproving

1. to criticize or correct, especially gently.

   to reprove a pupil for making a mistake.

   Synonyms:

   admonish, reprehend, chide, upbraid, reprimand, scold

   Antonyms:

   praise

2. to disapprove of strongly; censure.

   to reprove a bad decision.

3. Obsolete. to disprove or refute.

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verb (used without object)

reproved, reproving

1. to speak in reproof; administer a reproof.

reprove British  

/ rɪˈpruːv /

verb

1. (tr) to speak disapprovingly to (a person); rebuke or scold

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Related Words

See reproach.

Other Word Forms

• reprovable adjective
• reprover noun
• reproving adjective
• reprovingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of reprove

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English reproven, from Old French reprover, from Late Latin reprobāre, equivalent to re- re- + probāre “to test,” ( prove )

Example Sentences

When I mentioned any of this to Mutti, which I did, often, she would just put her arm around me, and say with a gently reproving smile and a shrug, “Me too, Elizabeth, me too.”

From Literature

Hudson: No matter how much you prove yourself, you’re always still reproving yourself.

From Los Angeles Times

“I always feel like you have to reprove yourself,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

People also lose coverage, however, because constantly proving and reproving eligibility is onerous — especially if you’re poor, not particularly adept at navigating red tape or don’t have stable housing.

From Washington Post

Alone, I reprove the thought as fantasy, a secret desire to sever myself from the man who has abandoned me twice.

From Salon