noun

obloquy

OB-luh-kwee/ˈɑːbləkwi/

Harsh public condemnation.

The mayor faces public obloquy after misusing funds meant for schools.

At a public meeting, a man standing beside a plain lectern recoils under forceful spoken criticism from two attendees, making public verbal condemnation—not physical conflict—the focus.

Etymology

Speaking “against” someone became evil speaking or slander. That connection explains both the verbal abuse itself and the public disgrace it can bring.

More examples

She risks obloquy by defending the deeply unpopular policy.
The company's dishonest advertising draws widespread obloquy.
His role in the scandal makes him an object of obloquy.

Forms

obloquy

Similar words

opprobrium: Emphasizes the public disgrace attached to shameful conduct.
condemnation: Expresses strong disapproval without necessarily being public or abusive.
vilification: Emphasizes abusive attacks intended to damage someone's reputation.