Meaning & Definition of word "Berate"
to
Berate
/bɪˈreɪt/
verb:
- 1. To scold or criticize someone angrily.
- Example: The teacher berated the students for not completing their assignments on time.
- 2. To reprimand or reproach in a loud and angry manner.
- Example: After the mistake, his boss berated him in front of the entire office.
- 3. To express disapproval or scorn through harsh words.
- Example: She didn't appreciate being berated publicly for a minor error.
- 4. To chide or rebuke severely.
- Example: The coach berated the team after their disappointing performance in the game.
- 5. To criticize someone in a harsh and abusive way.
- Example: The critic berated the film for its poor plot and shallow characters.
Etymology
Derives from the prefix 'be-' meaning 'about' and 'rate', which is from the Old English 'ræde' meaning 'to advise'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
berate someone:
To scold someone fiercely.
berate over:
To criticize someone intensely about a specific issue.
Related Words
reprimand:
To formally express disapproval.
scold:
To rebuke someone, typically for misbehavior.
rebuke:
To express sharp disapproval or criticism.
Slang Meanings of berate
Meaning: Lay into someone
Example Sentence: He really laid into him for missing practice.
Meaning: Give someone a dressing down
Example Sentence: The manager gave her a dressing down for the mistake.