Definition

A person who criticizes or reprimands someone severely.

Example

The teacher acted as a castigator, pointing out the mistakes in the student's work.

Conversation

I heard that teacher can be quite a castigator when it comes to late assignments.

Oh really? I've never experienced that myself.

Yeah, some students say they really regret not turning their work in on time.

Sounds like I should be more careful to avoid that!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Castigator is formed from "castigare" (meaning to chastise or correct) which is derived from "castus" (meaning pure) and "agere" (meaning to drive or do). The word refers to someone who corrects or chastises, often with the intent of making someone better or purer.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'drives' ('agere') you towards being 'pure' ('castus') by correcting your behavior — that's what a castigator does.

Visually Confused Words