scolding

American  

[skohl-ding] / ˈskoʊl dɪŋ /

noun

1. the action of a person who scolds; a rebuke; reproof.

   I got a scolding for being late again.

---

Other Word Forms

• unscolding adjective

Etymology

Origin of scolding

late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; see origin at scold, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

But Cronin wasn’t done, later admonishing a reporter for what he considered a dumb question, then scolding the reporter for allegedly raising his voice at him.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

Caluori says that, along with Pollock's trailblazing example, he has taken heed of a training-ground scolding from former England captain Owen Farrell.

From BBC • Jan. 22, 2026

And with responses from Russia and China limited to scolding statements, there is little reason not to keep pushing ahead.

From Barron's • Jan. 7, 2026

In one remarkable passage, Burroughs also criticized the Supreme Court’s cryptic shadow docket decisions, then condemned the justices for scolding lower courts that are unable to divine the meaning of these cryptic orders.

From Slate • Sep. 5, 2025

Mrs. Bennet deigned not to make any reply; but, unable to contain herself, began scolding one of her daughters.

From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen