v. -proved, -prov•ing.v.t. 1. to criticize or correct, esp. gently. 2. to express strong disapproval of; censure. 3. Obs. to disprove or refute. v.i. 4. to speak in reproof. [1275–1325; Middle English (v.) < Old French reprover < Latin reprobāre to condemn, reject = re- re- + probāre to approve, examine, prove]re•prov′er,n. re•prov′ing•ly,adv. ThesaurusSeereprove