First Known Use: 1819
Dictionary
riot act
noun
Definition of RIOT ACT
: a vigorous reprimand or warning —used in the phrase read the riot act
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Origin of RIOT ACT
the Riot Act, English law of 1715 providing for the dispersal of riots upon command of legal authority
Related to RIOT ACT
- Synonyms
- commination, condemnation, denunciation, excoriation, objurgation, rebuke, reprimand, reproach, reproof, censure, stricture
- Antonyms
- citation, commendation, endorsement (also indorsement)
Rhymes with RIOT ACT
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