Objurgate
hardNegative toneOB-jer-gayt
verb
Definition
To rebuke severely; to scold harshly
Memory hook
OB-JUR-GATE: a JUDGE at the GATE scolding you harshly before letting you in.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The teacher objurgated the students for their behavior.”
“Critics objurgated the government's handling of the crisis.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The teacher ______ the students for their behavior.”
Show answer
objurgated
Categories
GRE Tip
Objurgate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "castigate" or "upbraid" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "praise".
Related GRE Words
lambaste
To criticize harshly; to berate
upbraid
To scold or criticize severely
excoriate
To criticize severely; to strip off the skin
vituperate
To blame or insult someone in strong or violent language
berate
To scold or criticize someone angrily and at length
chastise
To rebuke or reprimand severely; to punish
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