Langimage
English

rebukes

|re-bukes|

B2

/rɪˈbjuːk/

(rebuke)

sharp criticism

Base FormPluralPluralPresent3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNounAdjectiveAdjective
rebukerebukesrebukersrebukesrebukesrebukedrebukedrebukingrebukesrebukerrebukedrebuking
Etymology
Etymology Information

'rebuke' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'rebuken', where the prefix 're-' meant 'back' or 'again' and the base was derived from Old French words used for checking or repelling speech or action.

Historical Evolution

'rebuke' changed from Middle English word 'rebuken', borrowed from Old French (e.g. 'rebuker'), and eventually became the modern English word 'rebuke'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it had senses related to driving back or checking; over time it evolved into the current meaning of 'to express sharp disapproval' or 'a reprimand'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an expression of sharp disapproval or criticism; a reprimand.

His rebukes during the meeting surprised everyone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

third-person singular present of 'rebuke': to express sharp disapproval of (someone) because of their behavior or actions.

She rebukes him every time he interrupts others.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/11 08:40