animadversion

[ an-uh-mad-vur-zhuhn, -shuhn ]

noun

1. an unfavorable or censorious comment:

   to make animadversions on someone's conduct.

   Synonyms: derogation, reflection, aspersion

2. the act of criticizing.

animadversion

/ ˌænɪmædˈvɜːʃən /

noun

1. criticism or censure
2. a carefully considered observation

Other Words From

• ani·mad·version·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of animadversion¹

1590–1600; < Latin animadversiōn- (stem of animadversiō ) a heeding, censure, equivalent to animadvers ( us ) (past participle of animadvertere to heed, censure; animadvert ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

So what is it, exactly, that fuels the animadversion against Martin Amis?

From New York Times

But he still had access to the social network of Washington journalists, his base constituency, always available to be entertained with his private animadversions of other politicians.

From The Guardian

The keeping of pet animals here, as in England, was a common fault and one against which Rigaud’s animadversions were singularly unsuccessful.

From Project Gutenberg

But at times some extremely artless animadversions are heard that almost nonplus us.

From Project Gutenberg

As to Raymond, the complete silence preserved with respect to him was more significant than could have been the severest animadversions.

From Project Gutenberg