Opprobrium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
opprobrium
[ษหprลbriษm ]
Definition
public criticism
Opprobrium refers to harsh criticism or public disgrace arising from someone's shameful conduct. It is often used to describe the strong condemnation that follows an act that is considered morally wrong or socially unacceptable.
Synonyms
contempt, disdain, disgrace, scorn.
Examples of usage
- The politician faced opprobrium after the scandal was exposed.
- The company's actions drew widespread opprobrium from the community.
- She endured opprobrium for her controversial stance on the issue.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Notable authors like Charles Dickens and James Joyce have utilized the word to reflect societal judgments.
- In literature, characters often face opprobrium for their actions, showcasing moral dilemmas and societal expectations.
- Poets frequently employ this word to critique social issues, pointing towards public scorn and its implications.
Psychology
- Experiencing opprobrium can lead to feelings of shame and anxiety, impacting oneโs self-esteem and behavior.
- Thereโs a psychological concept known as 'social rejection,' where public disapproval affects mental well-being.
- The harmful effects of opprobrium can lead individuals to withdraw from social interactions, illustrating the power of public opinion.
Pop Culture
- In media discussions, public figures often face opprobrium for controversial statements or actions, showing the power of public scrutiny.
- Reality TV shows often highlight opprobrium as contestants face public backlash for their behavior.
- Songs and films often depict characters enduring opprobrium as a way to explore themes of redemption and societal acceptance.
Politics
- Political leaders frequently face opprobrium for decisions that are unpopular, leading to protests and public outrage.
- Opprobrium can influence elections, as candidates are often judged based on their past actions and public perception.
- Historically, figures who have been shamed publicly leave significant impacts on societal dynamics, showing how powerful collective judgment can be.
Origin of 'opprobrium'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'opprobrium,' meaning 'disgrace or infamy.'
- It is formed from 'ob-' (against) and 'probrum' (reproach), which gives it the idea of fighting against shame.
- The use of this term began in the 16th century, reflecting a growing concern with personal reputation.
The word 'opprobrium' originates from the Latin 'opprobrฤซum', which means 'reproach, disgrace, infamy'. The Latin term is derived from 'ob-' meaning 'against' and 'probrฤซum', which signifies 'disgrace' or 'reproach'. The term made its way into Late Middle English around the late 15th century, maintaining its connotation of public shame and scorn. Over the centuries, it has been used in various literary and rhetorical contexts to articulate the outrage and condemnation directed towards individuals or entities who engage in reprehensible behavior. The term's usage highlights the social consequences of actions deemed unethical, reflecting the moral standards of society.