Upbraid

Verb

Definition: To reprimand or criticize someone severely.

Definition: To scold or reproach someone sharply.

Synonyms: Reproach, Admonish, Chastise, Berate

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Approve, Approve

Examples:

The teacher upbraided the student for not completing his homework.
She was upbraided by her boss for her poor performance at work.

Mnemonics:

"Upbraid" sounds similar to "up-raid" - imagine someone raiding up and scolding you.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'upbreyden', from Old English 'upp bregdan' (to move suddenly or to draw, pull, or lift up) + 'bregdan' (to brandish or shake)

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the Middle Ages, originally with the meaning of pulling or drawing up suddenly. Over time, it developed the current meaning of scolding or reproaching.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Upbraid oneself"

Explanation:

To criticize or blame oneself for something.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "upbraid" with "upbraided"

Explanation:

"Upbraid" is the base form of the verb, while "upbraided" is the past tense or past participle form.