Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Castigate
To punish severely; to criticize harshly
verbCheck this word before you leave
Pick the meaning. Keys A–D work too.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
💡
Imagine This
A vibrant garden where flowers are gently pruned, symbolizing the process of nurturing growth and improvement.
🔊
Sounds Like
CAST-uh-geyt
👀
Looks Like
Looks like: cast + gate (the word visually resembles 'cast' and 'gate')
📝
Remember This
The public harshly criticized the brutal crime, and the criminal received a life sentence.
📚
Other Forms
castigateverb
castigatesverb
castigatedverb
castigatingverb
castigationnoun
📌
Note
Castigate is stronger than chastise; do not confuse with 'cast' (to throw). Use for harsh punishment or condemnation.
🧠
Study Deeper
Examples
- The editor castigated the columnist for careless reporting.
- The coach castigated the players for their sloppy defense.
Synonyms
beratechastisedenouncereprimandcondemn
Antonyms
praisecommendlaud
Etymology
From Latin castigare 'to chasten, rebuke', from castus 'chaste, pure' + agere 'to drive'.
Mnemonic
Castigate sounds like cast a gate; imagine someone casting a gate aside as a severe rebuke to remember harsh punishment or strong disapproval.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Denounce
verbTo publicly condemn or criticize something or someone.
Chastise
verbPunish or scold someone harshly; rebuke or discipline.
Condemn
verbTo express strong disapproval of something or someone, and to declare them unfit, wrong, or deserving of punishment; in a legal sense, to sentence a person to punishment.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.