An expression of blame, censure, or reproof; a rebuke. Also: †a verbal insult, an opprobrious expression or epithet.

Mocking criticism; a verbal attack. Cf. yark, v.2 4a. Obsolete (Scottish in later use).

An act or instance of reviling; a reviling or abusive speech or remark.

slang (originally and chiefly U.S.). A physical beating, a thrashing; a verbal beating, a ‘dressing down’.

Something that stings or smarts; e.g. a sharp blow, or the hand that delivers it; something that causes sharp distress, a pungent speech or…

figurative. A strongly-worded letter; a disagreeable review or other communication. slang.