self-reproach

The word "self-reproach" is a transparent English compound formed from native and borrowed elements. The core component, "reproach", entered English from Old French 'reprochier', meaning "to blame, bring up against". This French term itself derives from Vulgar Latin 'repropiare', a combination of the Latin prefix 're-' (expressing intensive force) and the root from 'prope' (near), literally meaning "to bring back near" or "to cast something in someone's face". When prefixed with the Old English "self", the action is turned inward. Thus, the literal morphemic logic of "bringing blame back near to oneself" perfectly captures the modern abstract meaning of internalized criticism and guilt.

Structure: self (own) + re (again) + proach (bring near) self: From Old English 'self', meaning "one's own person". It functions as a prefix indicating reflexivity or directed action toward oneself. re: A prefix from Latin, meaning "again" or "back". In this compound, it intensifies the action. proach: From the Latin root 'prope' (near), via Old French 'prochier' (to approach, bring near). It functions as the core root meaning to bring something (blame) near.