castigation

American  

[kas-ti-gey-shuhn] / ˌkæs tɪˈgeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. severe criticism or harsh scolding; censure.

   The speaker segued inexplicably from a calm informational tone into a full-throated castigation of anyone and everyone associated with the administration.

   The impassioned responses to my essay range from ardent appreciation to virulent castigation.

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Other Word Forms

• noncastigation noun
• self-castigation noun

Etymology

Origin of castigation

First recorded in 1350–1400, for an earlier sense; from Latin castīgātiōn-, stem of castīgātiō “chastisement, a chastening,” from castigāre “to chasten”; castigate ( def. ), -ion ( def. )

Example Sentences

He described feeling social castigation, and sometimes isolation.

From New York Times

The frequent castigation of Versailles in popular histories over the past century has established a narrative implying that seeking justice for international crimes will boomerang, and that wise statesmen should know better.

From Salon

As she held tight to the word, stretching it like a castigation, she grabbed a photo of Pope John Paul II and held it up to camera.

From New York Times

The kids table can be less a castigation and more an opportunity: to solve issues on your own, away from the social obligations and droll etiquette of adults.

From Salon

I asked Davis to chat for about an hour, expecting bromides and castigations against the powers that be.

From Los Angeles Times