Find Synonyms

scolding Synonyms

Another word for scolding

Choosing another word for scolding depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

An angry rebuke or reprimand directed at someone for a fault or misbehavior.

Usage Example

"The children received a stern reprimand for tracking mud across the clean kitchen floor."

Strongest
reprimand
rebuke
talking-to
chiding
Strong
dressing-down
lecture
admonition
reproach
castigation

• adjective (Context 2)

Expressing angry disapproval, sharp criticism, or harsh rebuke.

Usage Example

"She gave her younger brother a reproachful look when he interrupted the speaker."

Strongest
reproachful
chiding
Strong
rebuking
upbraiding
censorious
admonitory

Opposites of scolding

The opposite of scolding shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

praise
approving
commendation
praising
compliment
complimentary
commendatory
accolade
See all opposites of scolding

• Nearby Words

scofflaw
scold
scolder
scolding
scoldingly
sconce
scooch

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Scolding. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/scolding
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