objurgatory

The teacher's objurgatory tone made the student lower his head.

Definition

Adjective: Expressing or containing harsh criticism, reproach, or blame; characterized by scolding or rebuking.

Usage Examples

• (A tone filled with severe criticism.)
• (A letter containing strong blame.)
• (Remarks that were harshly critical.)

Advanced Usage

• "objurgatory speech": A formal or public address that severely reprimands an audience or individual.

  • The principal delivered an objurgatory speech to the entire school about cheating. (A speech that harshly scolds.)

• "objurgatory gesture": A physical action intended to express strong disapproval.

  • He made an objurgatory gesture by shaking his finger at the child. (A gesture of rebuke.)

Variants and Related Words

• Objurgate (verb): To rebuke or scold harshly.

  • The coach objurgated the players for their lack of effort. (He scolded them severely.)

• Objurgation (noun): The act of scolding or rebuking strongly.

  • His constant objurgation of his employees created low morale. (Frequent harsh criticism.)

Synonyms

• Reproachful: Expressing disappointment or blame.
• Rebuking: Indicating a sharp reprimand.
• Censorious: Severely critical of others' faults.

Related Idioms

• "To read the riot act": To give a strong warning or scolding.

  • The manager read the riot act to the team after the project failure. (He gave a harsh objurgatory speech.)

• "To give someone a dressing-down": To scold someone severely.

  • The sergeant gave the recruits a dressing-down for their sloppy appearance. (A harsh, objurgatory reprimand.)