rebuke
20 synonyms and 2 antonyms for rebuke, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A sharp expression of disapproval; a scolding.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
scold
chide
berate
reprimand
reproof
trounce
chew up
lambast
reproval
bawl out
chew out
lambaste
call down
dress down
have words
remonstrate
reprehension
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A sharp expression of disapproval; a scolding.
“The senator issued a public rebuke of his own party's policy.”
How to use rebuke
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a sharp rebuke
rebuke someone for
a public rebuke
Formal — more common in news, politics, and writing than everyday speech, where "tell off" or "scold" is more natural.
Etymology
From Middle English rebuken, from Anglo-Norman rebuker ("to beat back, repel"), ultimately tied to an Old French word for striking or chopping wood.
Full origin of rebuke →Frequently asked questions
What does “rebuke” mean?
The word “rebuke” means a sharp expression of disapproval; a scolding. In plain terms, a stern telling-off, or to deliver one.
How do you pronounce “rebuke”?
“Rebuke” is pronounced ree-BYOOK (/ɹiˈbjuːk/ in IPA).
How do you use “rebuke” in a sentence?
Here is “rebuke” used in a sentence: “The senator issued a public rebuke of his own party's policy.”
What part of speech is “rebuke”?
Depending on how it is used, “rebuke” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “rebuke” come from?
The word “rebuke” comes from Old French. From Middle English rebuken, from Anglo-Norman rebuker ("to beat back, repel"), ultimately tied to an Old French word for striking or chopping wood.
Is “rebuke” a common word?
“Rebuke” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
How many meanings does “rebuke” have?
“Rebuke” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sharp expression of disapproval; a scolding.
