Definition

A serious criticism or harsh verbal attack, often aimed at someone's actions or character.

Example

The politician faced excoriation from the media after the scandal was revealed.

Conversation

Did you hear the excoriation that the critic gave to that new movie?

Yeah, I read it! They really tore it apart.

I thought it was a bit harsh, honestly.

Me too, but I guess that’s just how some critics are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Excoriation is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or away from) and "corium" (meaning skin). The term refers to the act of stripping away or removing the skin, often used in a medical context to describe abrasions or lesions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('ex-') something from 'the skin' ('corium') — that's why excoriation means to strip away the skin.

Visually Confused Words