rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryreprimandFormal criticism
noun / verb

reprimand

REP-rih-mand/ˈreprɪmænd/

A formal expression of disapproval for wrongdoing, or giving such criticism.

The supervisor delivers a formal reprimand while pointing out the worker's mistake.

South Asian supervisor firmly points out a workers mistake in a document, professional formal reprimand.
Etymology
reLatinback
+primandLatinto press, restrain

The pieces evoke “pressing back”: Latin reprimere meant to curb or restrain. Its form meaning “that which must be checked” came to name an authoritative rebuke for a fault.

In context

Rebel HQ12:03
the sentences having later been changed by a judge because of that misconduct. Of those 2500 incidents uh about 40 of those resulted in reprimand for the prosecutors in question.
Barrett Brown Interview: Journalist IMPRISONED For Exposing Truth

More examples

  • The written reprimand remains in her personnel file.
  • The judge reprimands the lawyer for repeatedly interrupting the witness.
  • Two officers were reprimanded for leaving their posts without permission.

Forms

reprimand · reprimands · reprimanded · reprimanding

Similar words

rebuke
Can be sharp and personal rather than formally official.
censure
Often expresses official condemnation by an organization or public body.