talking-to

noun

talk·​ing-to ˈtȯ-kiŋ-ˌtü How to pronounce talking-to (audio)

Examples of talking-to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Roberts pulled the reliever in, gave him what seemed like a fatherly talking-to, and – after Ramirez got out of the inning with the very next pitch – noted that sometimes the best course is not to yell and scream at a player. Mirjam Swanson, Orange County Register, 30 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of talking-to was in 1820

Dictionary Entries Near talking-to

Cite this Entry

“Talking-to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/talking-to. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

talking-to

noun
talk·​ing-to
ˈtȯ-kiŋ-ˌtü
: an often wordy scolding

More from Merriam-Webster on talking-to

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!