Objurgate

Verb

Definition: To rebuke or scold severely; to reprimand strongly.

Synonyms: Reprimand, Chastise, Berate, Castigate

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Laud

Examples:

The teacher objurgated the students for not completing their assignments.
He was objurgated by his boss for his poor performance.

Mnemonics:

"Ob-JURGate" - Think of an angry judge in a courtroom scolding the defendant harshly.
"Objurgate" sounds like "ab-jerk-ate" - imagine someone being reprimanded for being a jerk.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "objurgate" originated from Latin "objurgatus," past participle of "objurgare," which means "to reproach."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the late 16th century and was primarily used in formal writing or literature to signify severe reprimand or scolding.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Objurgate someone soundly"

Explanation:

Refers to reprimanding or scolding someone strongly or severely.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "objurgate" with "abrogate" or "abjure."

Explanation:

While these words may sound similar, they have different meanings and usage. "Objurgate" specifically refers to severe scolding or reprimand, whereas "abrogate" means to abolish or annul, and "abjure" means to renounce or reject.