revile

Definition of revilenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb revile differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of revile are berate, rail, scold, upbraid, and vituperate. While all these words mean "to reproach angrily and abusively," revile implies a scurrilous, abusive attack prompted by anger or hatred.

an alleged killer reviled in the press

When is berate a more appropriate choice than revile?

The synonyms berate and revile are sometimes interchangeable, but berate suggests prolonged and often abusive scolding.

berated continually by an overbearing boss

In what contexts can rail take the place of revile?

The words rail and revile can be used in similar contexts, but rail (at or against) stresses an unrestrained berating.

railed loudly at their insolence

When could scold be used to replace revile?

In some situations, the words scold and revile are roughly equivalent. However, scold implies rebuking in irritation or ill temper justly or unjustly.

angrily scolding the children

When might upbraid be a better fit than revile?

The words upbraid and revile are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, upbraid implies censuring on definite and usually justifiable grounds.

upbraided her assistants for poor research

When would vituperate be a good substitute for revile?

While the synonyms vituperate and revile are close in meaning, vituperate suggests a violent reviling.

was vituperated for betraying his friends

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of revile Texas lawmakers have openly reviled the standardized testing regime and voted last year to replace the test with three shorter assessments, starting in the 2027-28 school year. Noah Alcala Bach, San Antonio Express-News, 6 Apr. 2026 While Senesh was hailed as a hero, Kastner was reviled and assassinated by his own countrymen for negotiating with the Nazis. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026 Even Homeland Security adviser Stephen Miller — reviled by many as the architect of the harshest ICE policies — took advantage of the humanizing aspect of being associated with Elvis. John Beifuss, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 23 Mar. 2026 At a time when Black American culture is being reviled and denigrated throughout much of public life, this unapologetic expression of joy in outdoor winter activities is an enduring tribute to the resilience of people whose pursuit of happiness will not be denied. James Edward Mills, Outside, 15 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for revile
Recent Examples of Synonyms for revile
Verb
  • Inspired by true events, LifeHack follows Kyle and his crew of digital Robin Hoods who hack scammers and steal from people the internet loves to hate, working from the comfort of their bedrooms.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 15 May 2026
  • What smells do earwigs hate the most?
    Dan Simms, USA Today, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Renter Mandy Feng, who prefers to use a pseudonym for fear of being seen criticizing the authorities, said the stimulus the government is offering has failed to offset people’s anxiety over an uncertain economic outlook.
    Chris Lau, CNN Money, 18 May 2026
  • At the time of the women’s march, Cannes organizers were being criticized for failing to do more to publicly acknowledge the #MeToo and Time’s Up initiatives.
    Zack Sharf, Variety, 17 May 2026
Verb
  • The president blamed him for a massive sewage spill and excluded him from a historically bipartisan governors' meeting at the White House.
    Zac Anderson, USA Today, 19 May 2026
  • Under fire for recording a 2024 confidential legal visit between a lawyer and her client, the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office has responded by blaming the attorney, using an argument that one judge has already cast doubt on in court.
    Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Revile.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/revile. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

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