Exprobate

/ɛkˈsproʊbeɪt/ verb

Definition

To express disapproval or reproach; to scold or rebuke severely.

Etymology

From Latin exprobare, from ex- (thoroughly) plus probare (to reprove or disapprove). The 'pro-' element originally meant 'forth' rather than 'for,' making the word literally mean 'to disapprove thoroughly.'

Kelly Says

Exprobate is one of English's most obscure verbs—so archaic that it barely appears in modern use, yet it perfectly captures that pointed, specific kind of blame-with-disappointment that's hard to express with common words.

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