obloquy
UK: ˈɒbləkwi | US: ˈɑːbləkwi
n. harsh criticism or verbal abuse
n. disgrace or public condemnation resulting from such criticism
obloquy = ob<against> + loqu<speak> + y<noun suffix>
- ob<against>: From Latin ob-, meaning "against" or "toward."
- loqu<speak>: From Latin loqui, meaning "to speak."
- y<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix forming abstract nouns.
Etymology Origin:
The word obloquy originates from Latin obloquium, combining ob- (against) and loqui (to speak). It originally referred to speaking against someone, evolving into its modern sense of harsh criticism or public disgrace. The term reflects the power of speech to condemn or shame, preserving its adversarial roots.
The politician faced widespread obloquy after the scandal.
Her actions drew obloquy from both the media and her peers.
He endured years of obloquy before his reputation was restored.
The critic’s obloquy was so severe that it damaged the artist’s career.
Public obloquy can sometimes be more punishing than legal penalties.