English Explanatory Dictionary

invective

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. An expression which inveighs or rails against a person.
  2. A severe or violent censure or reproach.
  3. Something spoken or written, intended to cast shame, disgrace, censure, or reproach on another.
  4. A harsh or reproachful accusation.
adj
  1. Characterized by invection or railing.

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈvɛktɪv/ En-us-invective.ogg

Word forms

invective invectives more invective most invective

Etymology

From Middle French invective, from Medieval Latin invectiva (“abusive speech”), from Latin invectīvus, from invectus, perfect passive participle of invehō (“bring in”), from in- + vehō (“carry”). See vehicle, and compare with inveigh.

Synonyms

abusive critical denunciatory satirical vitriolic vituperative

Derived words

counterinvective invectivist invectively invectiveness
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