# scold

/ˈskoʊɫd/ (US) · /skˈəʊld/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scold
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a person who is very quick to criticize or find fault with others. You use this word for someone who is always pointing out mistakes or being negative.

For teachers: a person who habitually criticizes or reproves others. Often carries a slightly pejorative or humorous tone in modern usage.

## Examples

- She is a bit of a scold when it comes to grammar.
- The neighbor is a notorious scold who often complains about the noise from the new apartment.
- While his intentions were to improve the team's performance, his constant nitpicking earned him the reputation of a scold among the younger players.

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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.