Berate

Verb

Definition: To scold or criticize someone angrily or severely.

Synonyms: Reprimand, Rebuke, Chastise, Reprove

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Applaud

Examples:

The boss berated her employees for their poor performance.
He berated his friend for arriving late to the party.

Mnemonics:

Think of the sound "be-rate" as a reminder of the act of criticizing or scolding someone.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "berate" originated in the early 16th century from the Middle English word "bereten," which means to "scold" or "reprove."

Historical Usage:

"Berate" has been used consistently throughout history to describe the act of scolding or criticizing someone harshly.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Berate someone over the coals"

Explanation:

This phrase emphasizes intense and severe scolding or criticism.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "berate" with "belittle."

Explanation:

While both words involve criticism, "berate" specifically refers to scolding or reproving someone, whereas "belittle" means to make someone feel small or unimportant.