First Known Use: 1606
Dictionary
castigate
verb cas·ti·gate \ˈkas-tə-ˌgāt\
: to criticize (someone) harshly
cas·ti·gat·edcas·ti·gat·ing
Full Definition of CASTIGATE
transitive verb
: to subject to severe punishment, reproof, or criticism
— cas·ti·ga·tion \ˌkas-tə-ˈgā-shən\ noun
— cas·ti·ga·tor \ˈkas-tə-ˌgā-tər\ noun
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Origin of CASTIGATE
Latin castigatus, past participle of castigare — more at chasten
Related to CASTIGATE
Synonym Discussion of CASTIGATE
punish, chastise, castigate, chasten, discipline, correct mean to inflict a penalty on in requital for wrongdoing. punish implies subjecting to a penalty for wrongdoing <punished for stealing>. chastise may apply to either the infliction of corporal punishment or to verbal censure or denunciation <chastised his son for neglecting his studies>. castigate usually implies a severe, typically public censure <an editorial castigating the entire city council>. chasten suggests any affliction or trial that leaves one humbled or subdued <chastened by a landslide election defeat>. discipline implies a punishing or chastening in order to bring under control <parents must discipline their children>. correct implies punishing aimed at reforming an offender <the function of prison is to correct the wrongdoer>.
Rhymes with CASTIGATE
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CASTIGATE Defined for Kids
castigate
verb cas·ti·gate \ˈka-stə-ˌgāt\
cas·ti·gat·edcas·ti·gat·ing
Definition of CASTIGATE for Kids
: to punish or criticize harshly
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