English Reference
Noun

reproach

n.
C1 Advanced US /ɹiˈpɹoʊtʃ/ UK /ɹɪpɹˈəʊtʃ/ re·proach UK spelling reproached, reproaches

n.a feeling of being upset or angry with someone because they did something wrong. It can also be a look or a word that shows you are disappointed in someone.

n.a feeling of resentment or anger toward someone for a perceived fault or failure. Often used to describe a look or expression that conveys disapproval.


SIMPLE

She looked at him with a look of reproach.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager's stern silence was a clear sign of reproach after the team missed their monthly targets.

COMPLEX

The poet's work is filled with a quiet reproach against the indifference of the city, where the poor are often ignored by the wealthy.


From Middle English reprochen, from Old French reprochier (Modern French reprocher).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French reprochier
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated