rebuke

/ˈrɛbjuːk, -ˌbjuːk/

Definitions

1. noun

a severe or sternly expressed criticism or condemnation

“The coach gave the player a rebuke for not following the game plan.”

2. verb

to criticize or condemn severely or sternly

“The teacher rebuked the student for talking back.”

3. verb

to refuse to do something because it is considered wrong

“The driver rebuked the traffic officer’s decision to give them a ticket.”

Synonyms

  • castigate
  • chastise
  • rebuff
  • reprimand
  • scold

Antonyms

  • approve
  • commend
  • laud
  • praise