berate

[ bih-reyt ]

verb (used with object)

, be·rat·ed, be·rat·ing.

1. to scold; rebuke:

   He berated them in public.

   Synonyms: vilify, objurgate, vituperate, abuse

berate

/ bɪˈreɪt /

verb

1. tr to scold harshly

Word History and Origins

Origin of berate¹

First recorded in 1540–50; be- + rate ²

Related Words

• castigate
• chide
• rebuke
• reprimand
• reproach
• revile
• scold
• upbraid