verb
admonish
ad-MON-ish
Admonish (verb) means to tell someone firmly that they have done wrong, or to warn or urge them seriously. Example: “The judge admonished him for interrupting.”
verb
1
To tell someone firmly that they have done wrong, or to warn or urge them seriously.
"The judge admonished him for interrupting."
"She admonished them to keep quiet."
How to use admonish
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo tell someone off firmly, or warn them seriously.
When to use it
Formal.
Easily confused with
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The judge _____ him for interrupting.
Etymology
From Latin "admonere," to warn or advise, from "ad-" (to) plus "monere" (to warn).
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for admonish
See all rhymes for admonish →Frequently asked questions
What does admonish mean?
To tell someone off firmly but not harshly, or to warn them seriously. It carries a note of guidance rather than pure punishment.
What is the difference between admonish and scold?
Scolding is angrier and more informal. Admonishing is measured and often carries advice — a warning meant to correct rather than simply to vent.
What is the meaning of admonish?
"admonish" (verb) means to tell someone firmly that they have done wrong, or to warn or urge them seriously.
What is another word for admonish?
Other words for "admonish" include reprimand, rebuke, chide, caution, discourage, reprove.
