VocabDictionary

scolding

/ˈskoʊldɪŋ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An act of rebuking or reprimanding someone severely.

Example Sentences:
  • She received a stern scolding from her teacher for talking during the exam.
  • He took the scolding in silence, knowing he had made a serious mistake.
2.adjective

Expressing or characterized by harsh or censorious disapproval.

Example Sentences:
  • He gave her a scolding look that made her stop laughing immediately.
  • The manager delivered a scolding lecture regarding the team's lack of productivity.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “scolding”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'scolden', which likely originated from the Old Norse 'skald' (a poet or reciter of verses). Historically, a 'scold' was a person, typically a woman, who was considered troublesome or quarrelsome, often punished by public shaming. The meaning evolved from the act of being a 'scold' to the act of rebuking someone harshly.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'cold' shoulder: when you are being scolded, you feel the 'cold' disapproval of the person correcting you.

Frequently Asked Questions About “scolding

1. What is the meaning of “scolding” in English?

In English, scolding (noun) is defined as: “An act of rebuking or reprimanding someone severely.”.

2. How do you use “scolding” in a sentence?

She received a stern scolding from her teacher for talking during the exam.

3. What are English synonyms of “scolding”?

Common synonyms include:reprimand,rebuke,admonishment,reproach,chiding

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “scolding”?

Derived from the Middle English 'scolden', which likely originated from the Old Norse 'skald' (a poet or reciter of verses). Historically, a 'scold' was a person, typically a woman, who was considered troublesome or quarrelsome, often punished by public shaming. The meaning evolved from the act of being a 'scold' to the act of rebuking someone harshly.