Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - reprove

 verb  (~d; reproving)  Etymology: Middle English repreven, ~n, from Anglo-French ~r, from Late Latin reprobare to disapprove, condemn, from Latin re- + probare to test, approve — more at prove  Date: 14th century  transitive verb  1. to scold or correct usually gently or with kindly intent  2. to express disapproval of ; censure it is not for me to ~ popular taste — D. W. Brogan  3. obsolete disprove, refute  4. obsolete convince, convict  intransitive verb to express rebuke or reproof  • ~r noun  • reprovingly adverb Synonyms:  ~, rebuke, reprimand, admonish, reproach, chide mean to criticize adversely. ~ implies an often kindly intent to correct a fault gently ~d my table manners. rebuke suggests a sharp or stern reproof the papal letter rebuked dissenting clerics. reprimand implies a severe, formal, often public or official rebuke reprimanded by the ethics committee. admonish suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel admonished by my parents to control expenses. reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding reproached him for tardiness chided by their mother for untidiness.