PoliticsSeptember 4, 2026

obloquy

OB-luh-kwee

Definition

Strong public criticism, verbal abuse, or disgrace resulting from public condemnation.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'obloquium,' which combines 'ob-' (against) and 'loqui' (to speak). It entered English in the late 16th century to describe the act of speaking against someone.

In the news

Dabney uses the word to describe how his detractors attempted to hide the truth about Virginia under a pile of insults and false accusations. It highlights his perception of the historical mistreatment of his state's reputation.

R.L. Dabney Gives a Postwar Defense of His Home State Virginia

Read the full article ↗

Mises Institute

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