remonstrance

UK: rɪˈmɒnstrəns | US: rɪˈmɑːnstrəns

Definition
  1. n. a forcefully reproachful protest or objection

  2. n. (archaic) an act of presenting reasons for opposition or grievance

Structure
re <again>monstr <show>ance <noun suffix>
Etymology

remonstrance = re<again> + monstr<show> + ance<noun suffix>

  • re: Latin prefix meaning "again" or "back," indicating repetition or opposition.
  • monstr: From Latin monstrare ("to show" or "point out"), related to monstrum ("portent" or "warning").
  • ance: Noun-forming suffix from Latin -antia, denoting an action or state.

Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin remonstrare ("to demonstrate again" or "protest"), combining re- (opposition) with monstrare (to show). It entered English via Old French remonstrance, originally describing formal protests or appeals. The morphemes reflect a logical progression: "showing back" (i.e., presenting counter-arguments) evolved into "vehement objection."

Examples
  1. The council’s remonstrance against the new law was ignored.

  2. She wrote a letter of remonstrance to the editor.

  3. His remonstrances about workplace safety went unheeded.

  4. The king dismissed the nobles’ remonstrance with a wave.

  5. Their remonstrance grew louder as the debate continued.