lambaste

/læmˈbeɪst/

Group 27Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(verb)
To criticize harshly
GRE

Example in Context

The editorial lambasted the city council for approving the development project without conducting the environmental review required by law.

Synonyms

slamcriticizetrash

Etymology

To hit hard with words; severe criticism.

  • lamb (Old English) — to hit
  • baste (Old English) — to criticize harshly

Memory Aid

🐑Sounds like “lambaste

The SHEEP LAMBASTE the farmer for not providing them with enough grass!

Visual Association

🗣️A group of sheep holding signs and shouting at a confused farmer, demanding better treatment.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “lambaste” mean on the GRE?

lambaste (verb) means “To criticize harshly”. The editorial lambasted the city council for approving the development project without conducting the environmental review required by law.

How to remember “lambaste” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “lambaste” sounds like “lambaste”. The SHEEP LAMBASTE the farmer for not providing them with enough grass!

What are synonyms for “lambaste”?

Common synonyms: slam, criticize, trash.