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scold

pronunciation:: skold
parts of speech:: transitive verb, intransitive verb, noun
features:: Word History, Word Explorer

part of speech:	transitive verb
inflections:	scolds, scolding, scolded
definition:	to speak to with angry disapproval; reprimand; chastise. She scolded the child for hitting the dog. synonyms: bawl out, chastise, objurgate, reprimand, upbraid antonyms: praise similar words: abuse, berate, blast, blister, castigate, chide, criticize, lambaste, lecture, rate, rebuke, reproach, reprove, revile, take to task
related words:	admonish, chastise, correct, reprimand, score

part of speech:	intransitive verb
definition:	to speak to someone with angry disapproval; use harsh language. I know what I did was wrong, but please don't scold. similar words: carp, chide, complain, criticize, nag, reprove
related words:	lash

part of speech:	noun
definition:	a person who often scolds others. She was afraid she was turning into a scold. synonyms: faultfinder
related words:	nag
derivations:	scoldingly (adv.), scolder (n.)

Word History

Scold probably comes from the early Norse word skald, which means "poet." Centuries ago, the wandering poets of Scandinavia were experts at mocking and scolding in a memorable way.

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