Tirade
mediumNegative toneTY-rayd
noun
Definition
A long, angry speech of criticism or accusation
Memory hook
TIRE-ADE: a drawn-out angry speech that TIRES everyone listening.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His tirade against management lasted twenty minutes.”
“She launched into a tirade about poor service.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His ______ against management lasted twenty minutes.”
Show answer
tirade
Categories
GRE Tip
Tirade is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "diatribe" or "harangue" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "encomium".
Related GRE Words
diatribe
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
harangue
A lengthy, aggressive speech; to lecture aggressively
polemic
a strong verbal or written attack on a belief or opinion
invective
Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language
berate
To scold or criticize someone angrily and at length
blather
To talk at length in a foolish way; nonsensical talk
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