excoriate
UK: ɪkˈskɔːrɪeɪt | US: ɪkˈskɔːrɪeɪt
vt. to severely criticize or denounce someone or something
vt. to strip or wear off the skin; to abrade
The word "excoriate" originates from Latin excoriare, combining ex- (meaning "out" or "off") and corium (meaning "skin"). Historically, it referred to the literal act of stripping off skin, often used in medical or punitive contexts. Over time, the term evolved metaphorically to describe harsh verbal criticism, as if figuratively "skinning" someone with words. The morpheme -ate standardizes it as a verb in English.
The journalist excoriated the corrupt officials in her investigative report.
Harsh chemicals can excoriate the skin if not handled properly.
The film was excoriated by critics for its poor script and acting.
His speech excoriated the government’s failure to address poverty.
The rough fabric excoriated her knees after hours of crawling.