Vituperation

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /v(a)ɪˌtjuːpəˈɹeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. The use of scathing remarks and insults signifies a fierce rebuke or denunciation that specifically targets a person or group through vitriolic language
2. A vehement expression of censure or blame is characterized by the use of harsh and derogatory language aimed at belittling an individual or an entity
3. A form of verbal attack involves an intense level of criticism delivered through harsh language that seeks to condemn or disparage another person or group

Etymology: Vituperation comes from the Latin "vituperatio," meaning censure or blame, and the verb it rests on, "vituperare," meant to find fault with or rebuke. Latin built that verb from "vitium," a fault or defect, which is also the source of English "vice" and "vicious," so the word's core is the idea of pointing out someone's flaws. The English noun is formed simply in the same way as the verb "vituperate," which was borrowed from the Latin verb, with the suffix "-ion" (from Latin "-tio") turning the action into a noun. The result is a fairly formal word whose sense has stayed close to its Latin root: not mild criticism, but a loud, scornful torrent of blame.

Synonyms: abuse, censure, criticism

Antonyms: praise, compliment