rebuke
UK[rɪˈbjuːk]US[rɪˈbjuːk]
v
to speak severely to someone because they have done something wrong.
n
a severe criticism or reprimand.
Etymology
the word 'rebuke' entered english in the late middle english period from the anglo-norman french 'rebuker'. its ultimate origin is obscure, but it is thought to be connected to the old french 'buschier', meaning to strike or chop, possibly with an intensive prefix 're-'. this literal sense of striking evolved metaphorically into the modern meaning of delivering a sharp, verbal reprimand. the journey from a potential physical action to a verbal one illustrates a common pattern in semantic shift, where the force of the action is retained in a figurative form.
Analysis
the word 'rebuke' is a simplex form. it is derived from the anglo-norman french verb 'rebuker', which is of uncertain origin, possibly related to the old french 'buschier' (to strike, chop wood). the prefix 're-' in this context is intensive.
Examples
the manager had to rebuke the employee for the serious safety violation.
his harsh rebuke left her feeling humiliated and ashamed.
she rebuked herself for not speaking up when she had the chance.