reproach

Old French reprochier (Modern reprocher).

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

• Audio (US)

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• Audio (AU)

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• Rhymes: -əʊtʃ

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.

• obloquy, opprobrium

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

   • (Can we date this quote?) John Milton

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

   • (Can we date this quote?) Dryden

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

2. To disgrace, or bring shame upon someone.
   • (Can we date this quote?) William Shakespeare

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

• (to criticize or rebuke): blame, rebuke, upbraid
• (to disgrace): disgrace, dishonor
• See also Thesaurus:reprehend

• beyond reproach
• reproachful