lambaste
UK: lamˈbeɪst | US: lamˈbeɪst
vt. to criticize harshly or severely
vt. to beat or thrash physically
lambaste = lam<to beat> + baste<to thrash>
- lam (from Old Norse lemja, meaning "to beat or thrash")
- baste (from Old Norse beysta, meaning "to beat or strike violently")
Etymology Origin:
"Lambaste" is a vivid example of a reduplicative compound, where two near-synonymous roots reinforce each other for emphasis. Both "lam" and "baste" originate from Old Norse verbs meaning "to beat," reflecting the word’s dual heritage in physical and verbal assault. Over time, it shifted from literal thrashing to metaphorical scolding, retaining its intensity.
The coach lambasted the team for their poor performance.
Critics lambasted the film for its weak plot.
He was lambasted in the press for his controversial remarks.
The teacher lambasted the student for cheating.
Protesters lambasted the government’s new policy.