- present participle of scold.
scolding
Americannoun
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Inflected Forms
Nouns
Etymology
Origin of scolding
late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; see origin at scold, -ing 1
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But even while tacitly admitting Kirk’s scolding was unfair, she still insisted she was grateful for the “fatherly tough love.”
From Salon • Jun. 12, 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
As Busta Rhymes continues scolding the troll, the TMZ video pans over to the crowd and identifies Kenny Brooks, an internet personality known as Funny Salesman.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025
Ekon was surprised to see Koffi's expression turn almost scolding as she added, “That’s only fair.”
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.