English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
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 notes

In plain EnglishA gentle scolding or expression of disappointment.

Common pairings
beyond reproach a look of reproach reproach oneself

Word forms

reproached past tense, reproaches plural, reproaches singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “reproach” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

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.

Origin: Latin

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.

Featured in

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial