To reproach or scold someone harshly with words; to speak to someone with severe criticism or rebuke.
From the prefix 'be-' combined with 'tongue'. This creates a verb meaning to subject someone to harsh tongue-lashing or verbal criticism, literally attacking them with one's tongue.
This word is delightfully vivid—to 'betongue' someone is to literally use your tongue as a weapon, which is exactly what sharp, cutting words do to a person!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.