vituperate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //vɪˈtjuːpəreɪt//
KK: /vɪˈtjuːpəreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To speak or write in a very harsh and critical way, often using insults or strong language.
Example
During the debate, he began to vituperate his opponent instead of discussing the issues.
Tense Forms
Past: vituperated
Past Participle: vituperated
Conversation
Did you hear how he started to vituperate during the meeting?
Yeah, it was pretty surprising to see him lose his cool like that.
I know, right? It's not like him to vituperate like that in front of everyone.
I guess everyone has their breaking point, even him.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
revile
berate
scold
Antonyms
praise
commend
applaud
transitive verb
Definition
To criticize someone very harshly or angrily.
Example
The teacher vituperated the student for not completing the assignment on time.
Tense Forms
Past: vituperated
Past Participle: vituperated
Conversation
Did you hear how he vituperated that poor player after the game?
Yeah, it was pretty harsh; he really didn't hold back at all.
I can't believe he chose to vituperate instead of giving constructive criticism.
Root Explanation
Vituperate → It is formed from "vituperare" (meaning to blame or censure) which comes from the Latin roots "vitium" (meaning fault or vice) and "parare" (meaning to prepare or make). The word "vituperate" means to blame or criticize someone severely.
Memory Tip
Think of someone preparing to point out a 'fault' ('vitium') in another person — that's why vituperate means to blame or criticize.
Visually Confused Words
unvituperated
iterate