[ adj ] expressing reproof or reproach especially as a corrective <adj.all>
Reprove \Re*prove"\ (r?-pr??v"), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Reproved} (-pr??vd"); p. pr. & vb. n. {Reproving}.] [F. r['e]prouver, OF. reprover, fr. L. reprobare. See {Reprieve}, {Reprobate}, and cf. {Reproof}.] 1. To convince. [Obs.]
When he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. --John xvi. 9.
2. To disprove; to refute. [Obs.]
Reprove my allegation, if you can. --Shak.
3. To chide to the face as blameworthy; to accuse as guilty; to censure.
4. To express disapprobation of; as, to reprove faults.
He neither reproved the ordinance of John, neither plainly condemned the fastings of the other men. --Udall.
Syn: To reprehend; chide; rebuke; scold; blame censure.
Usage: {Reprove}, {Rebuke}, {Reprimand}. These words all signufy the expression of disapprobation. To reprove implies greater calmness and self-possession. To rebuke implies a more excited and personal feeling. A reproof may be administered long after the offience is committed, and is usually intended for the reformation of the offender; a rebuke is commonly given at the moment of the wrong, and is administered by way of punishment and condemnation. A reprimand proceeds from a person invested with authority, and is a formal and offiscial act. A child is reproved for his faults, and rebuked for his impudence. A military officer is reprimanded for neglect or violation of duty.
She's prim and reproving, with occasional lapses into softness, a bit like Anna with the king of Siam.
For Reagan, the British Conservative Party leader has been a sometimes costly, occasionally reproving but super-loyal friend. She rarely criticizes him.
That way their al fresco children's party could have continued without the one reproving adult. Connery has already escaped the Highlander saga.