reprimand

1 of 2

noun

rep·​ri·​mand ˈre-prə-ˌmand How to pronounce reprimand (audio)
: a severe or formal reproof

reprimand

2 of 2

verb

reprimanded; reprimanding; reprimands

transitive verb

: to reprove sharply or censure formally usually from a position of authority
Choose the Right Synonym for reprimand

reprove, rebuke, reprimand, admonish, reproach, chide mean to criticize adversely.

reprove implies an often kindly intent to correct a fault.

gently reproved my table manners

rebuke suggests a sharp or stern reproof.

the papal letter rebuked dissenting clerics

reprimand implies a severe, formal, often public or official rebuke.

reprimanded by the ethics committee

admonish suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel.

admonished by my parents to control expenses

reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding.

reproached him for tardiness
chided by their mother for untidiness

Examples of reprimand in a Sentence

Noun while reviewing the troops, the officer delivered a curt reprimand to one of the soldiers Verb The soldiers were severely reprimanded. reprimanded the summer intern for her constant tardiness
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Rokita has also faced disciplinary complaints and a reprimand from the Indiana Supreme Court over some of his conduct in office. Hayleigh Colombo, The Indianapolis Star, 6 Nov. 2024 Mark feels supported rather than scrutinized, and the feedback is framed as an opportunity for growth rather than a reprimand. Kip Holderness, Quartz, 21 Oct. 2024
Verb
In the months since, Whitaker has criticized and reprimanded the prosecution over its disorganized handling of the case. Justin Curto, Vulture, 29 Oct. 2024 Sometimes the moderator might also jump onto that bandwagon and reprimand the missing candidate. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for reprimand 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

French réprimande, from Latin reprimenda, feminine of reprimendus, gerundive of reprimere to check — more at repress

First Known Use

Noun

1636, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1681, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reprimand was in 1636

Dictionary Entries Near reprimand

Cite this Entry

“Reprimand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reprimand. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

reprimand

1 of 2 noun
rep·​ri·​mand ˈrep-rə-ˌmand How to pronounce reprimand (audio)
: a severe or formal criticism

reprimand

2 of 2 verb
: to criticize (a person) severely especially from a position of authority

More from Merriam-Webster on reprimand

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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