Riot Act

American  

noun

1. an English statute of 1715 providing that if 12 or more persons assemble unlawfully and riotously, to the disturbance of the public peace, and refuse to disperse upon proclamation they shall be considered guilty of felony.

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idioms

1. read someone the riot act,

   1. to reprimand; censure.

      The principal read them the riot act for their behavior at the assembly.

   2. to give (someone) a sharp warning.

Riot Act British  

noun

1. criminal law (formerly in England) a statute of 1715 by which persons committing a riot had to disperse within an hour of the reading of the act by a magistrate

2. to warn or reprimand someone severely

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Example Sentences

My husband read the Riot Act to his family, but they blame me for the estrangement.

From Slate • Nov. 2, 2020

Suddenly the Sheriff of Lanarkshire Mr A Mackenzie appeared at a corner of George Square and started to read the Riot Act, declaring the gathering unlawful and ordering the crowds to disperse.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2019

The venue is the first comedy club-like space to open in the city since the Riot Act Comedy Theater closed in 2012, less than a year after it opened.

From Washington Post • Mar. 31, 2016

Gregory, one of the first crossover black comedians, told Reuters late on Sunday before a sold-out show at the Riot Act comedy club.

From Reuters • Oct. 10, 2011

I believe you might disperse a mob more effectually by the exhibition of a subscription list than by reading the Riot Act.

From Elizabeth Gilbert and Her Work for the Blind by Martin, Frances