Definition of chew out

The term "chew out" originated in the mid-20th century, particularly during the era of World War II. It is believed to have initially been used in the military context to describe a harsh verbal reprimand given to a soldier by their superior officer. The origin of the expression can be traced back to the physiological act of chewing, which can be a sign of anger or frustration. The phrase "chew out" implies a strong verbal scolding, where a person's words are spat out forcefully, much like the act of chewing and spitting out food. The expression originated in military vocabulary due to the intense and emotional nature of combat situations, where soldiers required clear and concise communication to survive. Originally, "chew out" referred to a specific military discipline procedure for senior officers to reprimand subordinate soldiers. However, the term's usage has evolved over time, and it now denotes any severe and forceful verbal rebuke, not just limited to the military context. In popular culture, the term "chew out" is often used as a colloquial phrase to describe an intense or angry conversation, usually between individuals in positions of authority or of disputed status.