earful

Stern talking-to

An earful is a large amount of talk, usually unwelcome—a scolding, complaint, or lengthy lecture: I got an earful from my mother about coming home late.

Less commonly, it can mean as much as one can absorb: That concert was quite an earful.

reprimand

scolding

Harsh verbal criticism

lectureEducational spoken presentation
rebukeExpress sharp disapproval
tiradeExtended angry speech

diatribe · berating · harangue · telling-off · tongue-lashing · upbraiding · admonishment · chastisement · castigation · reproach

gossip

rumor

Unconfirmed circulating story

scandalDisgraceful public affair
scoopFirst-reported story
hearsayUnverified secondhand information

dirt · lowdown · skinny · inside story · juicy details · whispers · tittle-tattle · buzz · tea · secrets

noise

din

Sustained unpleasant noise

cacophonyHarsh, clashing sounds
racketUproar, scam, or paddle
clamorLoud persistent noise

blast · blare · roar · boom · wall of sound · barrage · pandemonium · hubbub · dissonance · jarring

Categories

scoldingscold, scolding, rebuke, berate, reprimand
tiradestirades, tirade, rants, rant, harangues
reproofsscolding, rebuke, reprimand, admonishment, admonition
telephonytelephone, telephone network, call, dial tone, phone lines
complaintscomplaint, complain, complaints, complaint form, complaint letter
gossiprumor, rumors, gossip, hearsay, whisper

Opposites

criticism vs. praise

earfulcompliment

Words expressing approval

praise · commendation · approval · flattery · kudos

volubility and intensity

Total lack of sound

few words · hush · taciturnity · understatement · whisper

verbal intensity/volume

Total lack of sound

wordlessness · the silent treatment · nod · shrug · whisper

Phrases

give someone an earfulScold someone at length
give an earful

Family

Familiarity: Top 50,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G