# reproach

/ɹiˈpɹoʊtʃ/ (US) · /ɹɪpɹˈəʊtʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reproach
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She looked at him with a look of reproach.
- The manager's stern silence was a clear sign of reproach after the team missed their monthly targets.
- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.