reproval

[ ri-proo-vuhl ]

noun

1. the act of reproving.
2. a reproof.

Word History and Origins

Origin of reproval¹

First recorded in 1840–50; reprove + -al ²

Example Sentences

Born with female anatomy, Kobabe didn’t feel like a girl, which became apparent in third grade when wading shirtless in a river during a class trip drew a reproval from the teacher.

From Los Angeles Times

The committee also issued a “letter of reproval,” or rebuke.

From Seattle Times

And some of the other Republicans who voted for acquittal on Saturday echoed Mr. McConnell’s reproval.

From New York Times

It tends to judge action in terms of character, rather than the other way around, and you hear its echoes in a familiar formula of reproval: “What kind of person would ... ?”

From New York Times

The committee concluded that the violations, “though unintentional, were significant enough to warrant a reproval.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• admonition
• censure
• condemnation
• disapproval
• punishment
• rebuff
• reproach
• snub