Definition

Deserving criticism or blame for something wrong or bad.

Example

His behavior was considered reproachable by his peers.

Conversation

I heard some people say that his behavior was quite reproachable during the meeting.

Really? I thought he was just being honest about his opinion.

Honesty is good, but there are ways to express it without being reproachable.

That’s true; sometimes it’s better to be tactful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reproachable is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "probare" (meaning to prove or test). The word describes something that can be proven or tested again, often in a negative sense, implying blame or criticism.

Memory Tip

Think of something that can be 'proven again' to be wrong or blameworthy — that's why reproachable means deserving of blame.

Visually Confused Words