Upbraid
hardNegative toneup-BRAYD
verb
Definition
To scold or criticize severely
Memory hook
UP-BRAID: imagine being BRAIDED (whipped) while someone scolds you — harsh criticism.
Examples
“She upbraided him for his carelessness.”
“The coach upbraided the team for poor effort.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She ______ him for his carelessness.”
Show answer
upbraided
Categories
GRE Tip
Upbraid is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "castigate" or "reprimand" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "commend".
Related GRE Words
objurgate
To rebuke severely; to scold harshly
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
lambaste
To criticize harshly; to berate
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism
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