scolding — an angry reprimand or criticism
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: an angry reprimand or criticism
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈskoʊldɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- After coming home at 2 AM, Jake got a scolding that could wake the entire neighborhood.
- My grandmother's scolding was legendary - even the dog would hide under the table.
- The teacher gave him a gentle scolding for forgetting his homework again.
scolding
NOUN[/ˈskoʊldɪŋ/]
an angry reprimand or criticism

Mother angrily reprimanding her child

Scolding while holding, when you should be folding!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Middle English 'scolden', which originated from Old Norse 'skald' (poet or bard). The semantic shift from 'poet' to 'to scold' developed from the practice of Viking-age skalds who recited sharp, critical verses, eventually coming to mean harsh rebuke or scolding.
Breakdown
Old Norse skald (poet, bard) → Middle English scolden (to scold) → scolding (present participle form meaning the act of rebuking harshly).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After coming home at 2 AM, Jake got a scolding that could wake the entire neighborhood.”
“My grandmother's scolding was legendary - even the dog would hide under the table.”
“The teacher gave him a gentle scolding for forgetting his homework again.”
“She accidentally spilled the scolding soup all over her shirt.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.