reproof

[ ri-proof ]

noun

1. the act of reproving, censuring, or rebuking.

   Synonyms: remonstrance, reproach, rebuke

2. an expression of censure or rebuke.

reproof

/ rɪˈpruːf; rɪˈpruːvəl /

noun

1. an act or expression of rebuke or censure

Other Words From

• re·proofless adjective
• self-re·proof noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reproof¹

1300–50; Middle English reprof < Old French reprove, derivative of reprover to reprove

Word History and Origins

Origin of reproof¹

C14 reproffe , from Old French reprove , from Late Latin reprobāre to disapprove of; see reprobate

Example Sentences

Preceded by a setting of the Kaddish and opening with an evergreen reproof of antisemitism, the symphony is the kind of music that welcomes reflection.

From New York Times

The opening line immediately signals the narrator’s mingled awe and reproof: “Because he had enjoyed almost every advantage since birth, one of the few privileges denied to Benjamin Rask was that of a heroic rise.”

From Washington Post

If Jim has taken your boyfriend’s reproof seriously, you could decide to let bygones be bygones, but if his appalling behavior resumes, the respectful thing to do is to let your friend know.

From New York Times

Not long after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Democratic Socialists of America released a statement that drew instant reproof.

From New York Times

The most prominent of them all would be Martin Scorsese, whose written reproof of the MCU in 2019 sent — and continues to send — certain fans of the movies into an indignant tizzy.

From Washington Post