Definition

To criticize or rebuke someone in a harsh or abusive manner.

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of Speech

Verb.

Synonyms

Berate, Castigate, Revile, Upbraid, Vilify.

Antonyms

Praise, Compliment, Flatter, Commend.

Word Forms

Part of Speech Words
Noun vituperations, vituperation
Verb vituperating, vituperates, vituperated, vituperate
Adjective vituperative
Adverb None

Example Sentences

  • The talk show host was known to vituperate his guests for their opinions.

  • The teacher did not hesitate to vituperate the student in front of the class for not completing their homework.

  • The embittered journalist, fueled by a deep-seated resentment, vituperated the politician in a scathing article, lacing it with venomous insults and unfounded accusations, attempting to tarnish their reputation and incite public outrage.

  • The politician used the opportunity to vituperate his opponents with scathing and insulting remarks.

Usage

The word “vituperate” is a strong and formal word that is often used to describe harsh criticism, condemnation or abuse. It is usually used to describe verbal or written attacks on a person, group, or idea. The word comes from the Latin word “vituperare,” which means to blame, censure or reproach.

When using this word, it is important to remember that it is quite formal and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more commonly used in academic or professional writing, such as in legal or political documents. When used in spoken language, it can be considered a harsh and insulting way to criticize someone, and it is important to use it with care.

The word “vituperate” can also be used in the form of a noun, “vituperation,” which means the act of vituperating or harshly criticizing. The word is also related to the word “vitriolic,” which is an adjective used to describe a bitter or scathing criticism. It is important to note that the word “vituperate” is usually used in a negative context, and should be used with caution to avoid sounding excessively critical or insulting.