condemnatory

[ kuhn-dem-nuh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee ]

adjective

1. serving to condemn.

condemnatory

/ ˌkɒndɛmˈneɪtərɪ; -trɪ; kənˈdɛmnətərɪ /

adjective

1. expressing strong disapproval or censure

Other Words From

• self-con·demna·tory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of condemnatory¹

First recorded in 1555–65; condemnat(ion) + -ory ¹

Example Sentences

The sheer amount of time devoted to this segment is itself a condemnatory statement.

From Los Angeles Times

It has stopped vetoing condemnatory resolutions at the United Nations.

From BBC

The reaction from Iranian officials to Friday’s round of strikes was condemnatory but not inflammatory.

From New York Times

Gross does, sharing a story summed up in vaguely admiring terms that are also condemnatory.

From Salon

With the exception of a few condemnatory editorials, it was largely applauded as a good riddance moment.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• compromising
• damaging
• damning