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reprove

verb
re·​prove | \ ri-ˈprüv How to pronounce reprove (audio) \
reproved; reproving

Definition of reprove

transitive verb

1 : to scold or correct usually gently or with kindly intent
2 : to express disapproval of : censure it is not for me to reprove popular taste— D. W. Brogan
3 obsolete : disprove, refute
4 obsolete : convince, convict

intransitive verb

: to express rebuke or reproof
Other Words from reprove Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about reprove

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Other Words from reprove

reprover noun
reprovingly \ ri-​ˈprü-​viÅ‹-​lÄ“ How to pronounce reprovingly (audio) \ adverb

Choose the Right Synonym for reprove

reprove, rebuke, reprimand, admonish, reproach, chide mean to criticize adversely. reprove implies an often kindly intent to correct a fault. gently reproved my table manners rebuke suggests a sharp or stern reproof. the papal letter rebuked dissenting clerics reprimand implies a severe, formal, often public or official rebuke. reprimanded by the ethics committee admonish suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel. admonished by my parents to control expenses reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding. reproached him for tardiness chided by their mother for untidiness

Examples of reprove in a Sentence

The teacher reproved the student for being late. my piano teacher often reproves me for slouching while playing, observing that good posture helps one play better

Recent Examples on the Web

 In lengthy reports released Thursday, the ethics panel reproved Reps. — Elise Viebeck, chicagotribune.com, "Reps. Rush and Gutiérrez ordered to pay Treasury following congressional ethics probes," 23 Mar. 2018 Jack’s shoulders are slumped forward, his arms crossed, while John’s maternal aunt Annie reproves him with an extended finger. — Jason Farago, New York Times, "J.M. Coetzee’s Boyhood, in Black and White," 16 Jan. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'reprove.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of reprove

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

History and Etymology for reprove

Middle English repreven, reproven, from Anglo-French reprover, from Late Latin reprobare to disapprove, condemn, from Latin re- + probare to test, approve — more at prove

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More Definitions for reprove

reprove

verb
How to pronounce reprove (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of reprove

formal : to criticize or correct (someone) usually in a gentle way

See the full definition for reprove in the English Language Learners Dictionary

reprove

verb
re·​prove | \ ri-ˈprüv How to pronounce reprove (audio) \
reproved; reproving

Kids Definition of reprove

: to express blame or disapproval of : scold No one reproved him because he had disobeyed …— Esther Forbes, Johnny Tremain

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More from Merriam-Webster on reprove

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with reprove

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for reprove

Spanish Central: Translation of reprove

Nglish: Translation of reprove for Spanish Speakers

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