Definition

To scold someone more harshly or effectively than another person.

Example

She managed to outscold her brother during the argument, making him feel guilty.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe how much she can outscold everyone when they mess up.

Right? It’s like she has a talent for it.

I really think she needs to tone it down a bit.

Totally! Sometimes it feels like too much.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outscold → It is formed from "out-" (meaning beyond or more than) and "scold" (from Old English "scoldian", meaning to rebuke or reprimand). The word "outscold" means to scold someone more than another or to scold more effectively than someone else.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who scolds 'beyond' ('out-') what is usual — that's why outscold means to scold more than someone else.

Visually Confused Words