chew out

verb

1. informal.
   tr, adverb to reprimand

Idioms and Phrases

Scold harshly, as in Dad will chew you out for taking the car without permission . Originating in the military, this slangy term began to be used during World War I and soon spread to civilian life. Several vulgar versions, such as chew someone's ass out , should be avoided in polite speech. Also see eat out , def. 2.

Example Sentences

I told 'em to stand aside until I went in and had my rag-chew out with you.

From Project Gutenberg

"They lost the vein here and had to chew out some rock to find it again," Rick pointed out.

From Project Gutenberg

With the pliers he tore at the side of the box and managed to chew out a piece of the thin aluminum.

From Project Gutenberg

Chew out an explanation, my friend, or you're liable to get spoiled.

From Project Gutenberg