reproof

American  

[ri-proof] / rɪˈpruf /

noun

1. the act of reproving, censuring, or rebuking.

   Synonyms:

   remonstrance, reproach, rebuke

2. an expression of censure or rebuke.

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reproof British  

/ rɪˈpruːf, rɪˈpruːvəl /

noun

1. an act or expression of rebuke or censure

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Other Word Forms

• reproofless adjective
• self-reproof noun

Etymology

Origin of reproof

1300–50; Middle English reprof < Old French reprove, derivative of reprover to reprove

Explanation

A reproof is a negative comment, reprimand, or rebuke. Even the nicest kindergarten teacher in the world will give his students a reproof if they won't stop laughing and running around the classroom. An athlete's bad behavior on or off the field might result in a reproof by his coach. and a long-distance bus driver will offer at least a mild reproof if a passenger is continuously talking loudly into her cell phone. Kids with strict parents receive more reproofs than those who have fewer rules to follow. Reproof comes from the Late Latin reprobāre, which means "disapprove, reject, or condemn."

Example Sentences

Preceded by a setting of the Kaddish and opening with an evergreen reproof of antisemitism, the symphony is the kind of music that welcomes reflection.

From New York Times • Aug. 1, 2022

When a boy in the front row decides to visit the girl sitting behind him, Hood gives him a gentle reproof.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 2021

McQueen’s separate reproof to his industry for being slow to change was prompted by a recent visit to a film set in which a friend of his was working.

From The Guardian • Jun. 20, 2020

With it, the architect proved the power of a poetic modernism, full of whimsy and romance, and offered a reproof to the lean, functional modernism of an earlier generation of architects.

From Washington Post • Jun. 12, 2019

“Thee doesn’t become a Quaker just to escape the Meeting,” she said, and Kit flushed at the gentle reproof in her tone.

From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare