Meaning & Definition of word "Denounce"

Denounce

/dɪˈnaʊns/

verb:

  • 1. To publicly declare something to be wrong or evil.
    • Example: The activist chose to denounce the government's policies on climate change.
  • 2. To inform against someone; to accuse someone formally.
    • Example: He decided to denounce his former business partner for fraud.
  • 3. To condemn or criticize openly.
    • Example: Many celebrities denounce the use of plastic in their social media posts.
  • 4. To announce the termination of an agreement or contract.
    • Example: She announced her intention to denounce the lease agreement due to non-compliance.

Etymology

From Latin denunciāre, meaning 'to proclaim or announce.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

denounce someone:

To publicly accuse someone of wrongdoing.

denounce an action:

To publicly condemn a specific action.

denounce a regime:

To criticize a government or ruling body.

Related Words

denunciation:

The act of denouncing; a public condemnation.

denouncer:

A person who denounces someone or something.

Slang Meanings of denounce

Meaning: Drop a dime

Example Sentence: If you see something illegal, you gotta drop a dime and denounce it.

Meaning: Blow the whistle

Example Sentence: She decided to blow the whistle on the company for their illegal activities.