Definition of the word admonish

The word "admonish" has its roots in Old English. The verb "admonian" means "to warn or instruct" and comes from the Latin word "admonere," which is derived from "ad" meaning "to" and "monere" meaning "to warn." The Latin word is also related to the verb "monere" meaning "to remind." In Old English, the verb "admonian" was used to mean "to warn, instruct, or advise" and was often used in a moral or religious context. For example, a teacher would admonish a student for misbehavior, or a preacher would admonish the congregation to lead virtuous lives. The word "admonish" has retained its core meaning over time, and today it is used to mean "to warn, scold, or reprimand someone in a gentle but firm manner."