online medical dictionary | definition of reprehend

To reprove or reprimand with a view of restraining, checking, or preventing; to make charge of fault against; to disapprove of; to chide; to blame; to censure. "Aristippus being reprehended of luxury by one that was not rich, for that he gave six crowns for a small fish." (Bacon) "Pardon me for reprehending thee." (Shak) "In which satire human vices, ignorance, and errors . . . Are severely reprehended." (Dryden) "I nor advise nor reprehend the choice." (J. Philips)

Origin: L. Reprehendere, reprehensum, to hold back, seize, check, blame; pref. Re- re- + prehendere to lay hold of. See Prehensile, and cf. Reprisal.

(01 Mar 1998)