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obloquy

Obloquy (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˈɒbləkwi/

What does obloquy mean?

Strong public criticism or verbal abuse, often in the form of insults or denouncement.
"The politician faced intense obloquy for his scandalous behavior."

Detailed Meaning of Obloquy

It can also refer to the state of being the object of such criticism or verbal abuse. The word comes from the Latin word "obloquium" which means "reproach" or "vilification". In everyday use, "obloquy" is used to describe the act of speaking against someone or something, usually in a harsh or critical manner, and can be directed towards an individual, group, or an idea. It can also be used to describe the state of being the object of such criticism or verbal abuse, such as experiencing obloquy from the media or the public. In literature, the term is often used to describe the verbal abuse or insults that a character is subjected to by others. Obloquy is a strong word, it's often used in situations where the criticism is severe and it is intended to damage someone's reputation or social standing.

Example Sentences for Obloquy

1. The actor faced obloquy after his controversial remarks.
2. Political leaders often endure obloquy from opposing parties.
3. The scandal brought obloquy to the company's reputation.
4. The journalist's exposé led to a storm of obloquy.
5. Public figures are no strangers to obloquy in today's world.
6. The athlete's doping scandal resulted in widespread obloquy.

Origin and Etymology of Obloquy

The noun 'obloquy' has a fascinating etymology rooted in Latin. It stems from the Latin word 'obloquium,' which is derived from 'ob' meaning 'against' and 'loqui' meaning 'to speak.' Essentially, 'obloquium' in Latin referred to speaking against or in opposition to someone. Over time, as Latin evolved into English, 'obloquium' transformed into 'obloquy,' retaining its original sense of strong public criticism or verbal abuse, often taking the form of insults or denouncements. This etymological journey highlights the adversarial nature of obloquy, where words are used to speak against and condemn someone or something publicly.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun obloquy:

disgrace

acclaim

praise

respect

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More Usage Examples of Obloquy

1. Her dishonesty in the competition drew obloquy from fans.
2. The CEO's unethical decisions led to a torrent of obloquy.
3. The controversial decision sparked obloquy on social media.
4. The artist faced obloquy for his controversial artwork.
5. The politician's actions invited obloquy from constituents.
6. The celebrity endured obloquy for their offensive remarks.
7. The movie received critical obloquy from film reviewers.
8. The controversial book garnered its fair share of obloquy.
9. The company's deceptive practices brought obloquy upon it.
10. The court's verdict resulted in a chorus of obloquy.
11. The controversial law sparked public obloquy and protests.
12. The public figure's downfall was met with relentless obloquy.
13. The scandalous revelation led to obloquy in the media.
14. His divisive speech attracted obloquy from both sides.
15. The politician's corruption scandal generated public obloquy.
16. The athlete's unsportsmanlike conduct drew obloquy from fans.
17. The controversial decision faced harsh obloquy from experts.
18. The company's layoffs prompted obloquy from employees.
19. The artist's provocative exhibition incited public obloquy.