reproach

/rəˈproʊtʃ/

/rəˈprʌʊtʃ/

Other forms: reproached; reproaches; reproaching

Reproach means to mildly criticize. If you show poor manners at your grandmother's dinner table, she will reproach you.

The verb reproach means to express disapproval or criticism of; as a noun it means blame or criticism. If you are beyond reproach that means no one could find anything to criticize about you. Synonyms for reproach are the verbs admonish, reprove, rebuke, reprimand. As a noun, reproach can also be shame. If you are caught lying, it is a reproach that might bother you for a while.

Definitions of reproach

1. verb

   express criticism towards
   “The president reproached the general for his irresponsible behavior”

   synonyms: upbraid

   type of:

   accuse, criminate, impeach, incriminate

   bring an accusation against; level a charge against
2. noun

   a mild rebuke or criticism
   “words of reproach”

   types:

   self-reproach, self-reproof

   the act of blaming yourself

   blame, rap

   a reproach for some lapse or misdeed

   type of:

   rebuke, reprehension, reprimand, reproof, reproval

   an act or expression of criticism and censure
3. noun

   disgrace or shame
   “he brought reproach upon his family”

   type of:

   disgrace, ignominy, shame

   a state of dishonor