reproach

Etymology

Old French reprochier (Modern reprocher).

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ɹɪˈpɹəʊtʃ/
• (US) IPA^(key): /ɹɪˈpɹoʊtʃ/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Rhymes: -əʊtʃ

Noun

reproach (plural reproaches)

1. A mild rebuke, or an implied criticism.
   • 1818, Mary Shelley, chapter 4, in Frankenstein‎:

     My father made no reproach in his letters and only took notice of my science by inquiring into my occupations more particularly than before.

2. Disgrace or shame.

Verb

reproach (third-person singular simple present reproaches, present participle reproaching, simple past and past participle reproached)

1. To criticize or rebuke someone.
   • Bible, 1 Peter iv. 14

     if ye be reproached for the name of Christ

   • Milton

     That this newcomer, Shame, / There sit not, and reproach us as unclean.

   • Dryden

     Mezentius […] with his ardour warmed / His fainting friends, reproached their shameful flight, / Repelled the victors.

2. To disgrace, or bring shame upon someone.
   • Shakespeare

     I thought your marriage fit; else imputation, / For that he knew you, might reproach your life.