curtain lecture

noun

plural curtain lectures

dated : a private scolding or lecture by a wife to her husband

Word History

Etymology

from its originally being given behind the curtains of a bed

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of curtain lecture was in 1633

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Curtain lecture.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/curtain%20lecture. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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