scold
20 synonyms and 3 antonyms for scold, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To criticize someone sharply, usually for doing something wrong.
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.
Synonyms by Meaning
How to use scold
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
scold a child
get scolded
scold someone for
Etymology
The verb comes from Middle English scolden; the noun is older still, possibly linked to Old Norse skald, "poet" — since medieval poets sometimes wrote biting, insulting verses.
Full origin of scold →Frequently asked questions
What does “scold” mean?
The word “scold” means to criticize someone sharply, usually for doing something wrong. In plain terms, to tell someone off, usually a milder and more personal version of "reprimand," often used for parents correcting children.
How do you pronounce “scold”?
“Scold” is pronounced SKOHLD (/ˈskoʊ̯ld/ in IPA).
How do you use “scold” in a sentence?
Here is “scold” used in a sentence: “The teacher scolded the students for talking during the test.”
What part of speech is “scold”?
Depending on how it is used, “scold” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “scold” come from?
The word “scold” comes from Middle English. The verb comes from Middle English scolden; the noun is older still, possibly linked to Old Norse skald, "poet" — since medieval poets sometimes wrote biting, insulting verses.
How many meanings does “scold” have?
“Scold” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to criticize someone sharply, usually for doing something wrong.
