What does reproach mean?
Reproach means to express strong disapproval of someone’s conduct, often after expecting a better standard of behavior. As a verb, it describes words, looks, or actions that blame or reprimand another person: “He reproached her for being late.” As a noun, a reproach is an expression of blame, criticism, or disappointment, and it can also refer to the act of reprimanding someone. The word is formal and more emphatic than a mild complaint, but less forceful and confrontational than an outright denunciation. It appears in established expressions such as “beyond reproach,” meaning deserving of no criticism, and “earn reproach,” meaning to deserve blame. Reproach can convey both moral disapproval and a sense of hurt betrayal, depending on the context.
To express blame or disapproval of someone’s conduct.
"She reproached him for neglecting his duties."
Formal; commonly used with a person, a group, or an action as the object.
An expression of blame, criticism, or disapproval; also, the act of reprimanding someone.
"His words were a quiet reproach."
Often conveys serious or disappointed disapproval rather than casual criticism.
Used for individual expressions of blame or disapproval; the plural form is less common than the singular.
"Her gentle reproaches persuaded him to apologize."
Reproach literally means to call out against someone, combining “again” with an ancient sense of crying out or making an accusation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of reproach
Reproach entered Middle English from Old French reprocher, meaning to blame or accuse. The French word came from a Latin form associated with reproc(h)are, combining re-, meaning again or back, with procare, meaning to cry out or make an accusation. The sense developed from calling out against someone to expressing blame for wrongdoing.
Related word forms
How reproach is actually used
Reproach is formal and carries a serious, disapproving tone. It is often used when someone is disappointed or offended by another person’s behavior.