opprobrium
uh-PROH-bree-um
/əˈproʊbriəm/
Harsh criticism or censure; public disgrace arising from shameful conduct.
Opprobrium is the heaviest word in this group; it describes the massive, collective weight of public scorn and the disgrace that follows it.
The story behind the word. Opprobrium comes from the Latin 'opprobrare,' meaning 'to reproach.' It is built from 'ob' (against) and 'probrum' (a shameful act). It is the verbal 'reproach' that society hurls at someone who has done something truly disgraceful.
Word relationships
- infamy: Infamy is being well-known for a bad quality; opprobrium is the criticism and disgrace itself.
- ignominy: Ignominy is public shame or disgrace; opprobrium emphasizes the harsh criticism that causes the shame.
- acclaim: Acclaim is enthusiastic and public praise.
- prestige: Prestige is widespread respect and admiration.
Commonly confused with
- appropriate: Appropriate means suitable; opprobrium means public disgrace.
Word family
- opprobrious (adjective): expressing scorn or criticism
Collocations
- public opprobrium
- universal opprobrium
- heap opprobrium on
Example sentences
- "The dictator's name is now a source of universal opprobrium." A political analysis.
- "He resigned to avoid the further opprobrium that would come with a public trial." A discussion on ethics.
Memory hook
OPPROBRIUM sounds like 'A PRO-BLAMER'—everyone is blaming you. Massive public disgrace.
When not to use
Do not use for a minor social error; it is reserved for major scandals or moral failures.
Fun facts
- The word 'reproach' is a distant cousin of 'opprobrium.'
Related words
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