noun
C2
Proficient
reproach
rih-PROHCH
Reproach (noun) means a mild expression of blame or disappointment. Example: “There was a note of reproach in her voice when she asked where he'd been.”
noun
1
A mild expression of blame or disappointment.
"There was a note of reproach in her voice when she asked where he'd been."
verb
1
To criticize or blame someone, usually gently.
"He reproached himself for not calling sooner."
How to use reproach
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gentle scolding or expression of disappointment.
Common pairings
beyond reproach
a look of reproach
reproach oneself
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Word forms
- Plural
- reproaches
- Third person singular
- reproaches
- Past tense
- reproached
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There was a note of _____ in her voice when she asked where he'd been.
Etymology
From Old French reprochier, likely tied to the idea of bringing something "close" (Latin prope) back to someone as blame.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for reproach
See all rhymes for reproach →Frequently asked questions
What does “reproach” mean?
The word “reproach” means a mild expression of blame or disappointment. In plain terms, a gentle scolding or expression of disappointment.
How do you pronounce “reproach”?
“Reproach” is pronounced rih-PROHCH (/ɹɪˈpɹoʊt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “reproach” in a sentence?
Here is “reproach” used in a sentence: “There was a note of reproach in her voice when she asked where he'd been.”
What is another word for “reproach”?
Words with a similar meaning to “reproach” include obloquy and opprobrium.
What part of speech is “reproach”?
Depending on how it is used, “reproach” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “reproach” come from?
The word “reproach” comes from Latin. From Old French reprochier, likely tied to the idea of bringing something "close" (Latin prope) back to someone as blame.
How many meanings does “reproach” have?
“Reproach” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mild expression of blame or disappointment.
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