Definition

A long and angry speech or piece of writing that criticizes someone or something very strongly.

Example

The politician's diatribe against his opponents was filled with harsh accusations.

Conversation

Did you hear that guy's diatribe about the new policy at work?

Yeah, it was pretty over-the-top, wasn't it?

I know! It felt more like a rant than a real discussion.

Exactly, I think he just wanted to vent his frustrations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diatribe is formed from "dia-" (meaning through or across) and "tribein" (Greek for to rub or wear away). The word originally referred to a discourse or a way of wearing down an argument through criticism or debate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'going through' ('dia-') a process of 'rubbing away' ('tribein') someone's argument — that's why diatribe means a forceful criticism.

Visually Confused Words