revile

[ ri-vahyl ]

verb (used with object)

, re·viled, re·vil·ing.

1. to assail with contemptuous or opprobrious language; address or speak of abusively.

   Synonyms: disparage, berate, vituperate, vilify, abuse

verb (used without object)

, re·viled, re·vil·ing.

1. to speak abusively.

revile

/ rɪˈvaɪl /

verb

1. to use abusive or scornful language against (someone or something)

Derived Forms

• reˈvilement, noun
• reˈviler, noun

Other Words From

• re·vile·ment noun
• re·vil·er noun
• re·vil·ing·ly adverb
• un·re·vil·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of revile¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English revilen, from Middle French reviler; re-, vile

Word History and Origins

Origin of revile¹

C14: from Old French reviler , from re- + vil vile

Example Sentences

A Peruvian priest who founded liberation theology, a movement advocating an active role for the Roman Catholic Church in fighting poverty and injustice but reviled by some as Marxist, has died.

From BBC

A relative of a reviled international terrorist abandoned it.

From Los Angeles Times

A woman once viewed as a democrat but later reviled by many as a despot had fled like a fugitive under cover of internet darkness.

From BBC

After questioning his abilities and integrity during the primaries, they gave full-throated backing to a man they once loudly reviled, saying that unifying behind their former foe was crucial for the nation’s future.

From Los Angeles Times

Now, he is a national celebrity, reviled by both Fidesz, from which he is trying to attract conservative voters, and by a leftist opposition bloc whose supporters he also wants.

From New York Times

Related Words

• berate
• castigate
• chide
• criticize
• denounce
• disparage
• scorn
• vilify