Excoriates is a verb that means to criticize or berate severely. The word is spelled as /ɪkˈskɔːrɪeɪts/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The first syllable, "ex," is pronounced as "eks," rhyming with the word "pecks." The second syllable, "cor," is pronounced as "kohr," rhyming with the word "more." The third syllable, "i," is pronounced as the short "i" sound, like in "sit." The last syllable, "ates," is pronounced as "aits," rhyming with the word "states."
Excoriates is a verb that refers to the act of severely criticizing or condemning someone or something, often publicly and harshly. It entails vehemently denouncing or berating an individual, an institution, an action, or an idea.
When someone excoriates another person, they express their strong disapproval, typically by reproaching them vehemently and unreservedly. It involves passionately attacking the target, often critiquing their character, behavior, or decisions in no uncertain terms. The purpose behind such excoriation can vary, ranging from expressing personal displeasure, seeking justice, or attempting to sway public opinion.
Excoriation often takes place in the public sphere, such as during political debates, media discourse, or public forums. It can be seen in newspaper editorials that castigate politicians for alleged misdeeds or in social media comments that rebuke a celebrity for their controversial actions. The intent is to hold the subject accountable and publicly shame them for their perceived wrongdoings.
The term excoriate also carries connotations of stripping away someone's reputation, dignity, or credibility. It implies a scathing attack that leaves the target deeply wounded or damaged in their public image. In summary, excoriates refers to the act of verbally assaulting and vehemently censuring someone or something in a severe and harsh manner, often accompanied by strong emotional expression.
The word excoriates is derived from the Latin verb excoriatus, which comes from the past participle form of the verb excoriare. Excoriare combines the prefix ex- meaning out or thoroughly with corium, meaning skin or hide. Therefore, excoriare meant to strip off the skin or to flay. Over time, the word excoriates evolved to mean to criticize or berate severely, similar to metaphorically stripping someone of their figurative skin.