Excoriate

Verb

Definition: To criticize or berate severely.

Definition: To damage or remove part of the surface of (the skin).

Synonyms: Berate, Censure, Condemn, Reprimand

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Laud

Examples:

The news article excoriated the government's handling of the crisis.
The harsh detergent excoriated her sensitive skin.

Mnemonics:

Think of "excoriate" as "ex-critical." When you criticize someone severely, you "excoriate" them.

Etymology:

Origin:

Excoriate comes from the Latin word "excoriatus," which means to flay or strip off the skin.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the early 17th century, primarily with the sense of severe criticism. The association with skin damage came later.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Excoriate someone's character"

Explanation:

To severely criticize or attack someone's reputation or moral character.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the verb form with the related noun form, "excoriation."

Explanation:

While "excoriation" is a related word that means a scratch or abrasion on the surface of the skin, "excoriate" as a verb more commonly refers to severe criticism.