/ rɪˈpruːf; NAmE / noun ( formal )
1.
[ U ] blame or disapproval :
His words were a mixture of pity and reproof.
2.
[ C ] a remark that expresses blame or disapproval
SYN rebuke :
She received a mild reproof from the teacher.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French reprove , from reprover reprove. Early senses included disgrace, personal shame and scorn .