'rebuke' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'rebuken', where the prefix 're-' conveyed a sense of 'back' or 'again' and the stem was borrowed from Old French 'rebuchier' (or similar forms).

'rebuke' changed from Middle English 'rebuken' (from Old French 'rebuchier' / 'rebucher') and eventually became the modern English word 'rebuke' and the related agent noun 'rebuker'.

Initially it carried senses related to a striking-back or forceful repulse in older usage, but over time it evolved into the present sense of 'to express sharp disapproval or criticism'.