Reprehension (-shn), n.
Etymology: [L. reprehensio: cf. F. répréhension.]
Reproof; censure; blame; disapproval. This Basilius took as though his mistress had given him a secret reprehension that he had not showed more gratefulness to Dorus. Sir P. Sidney.
Syn. -- Censure; reproof; reprimand. See Admonition.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for reprehension; he lists it under reproof.
Where he writes about it:
Blame, censure, and disapproval may either be felt or uttered; comment, criticism, rebuke, reflection, reprehension, and reproof are always expressed. — from reproof
Comment and criticism may be favorable as well as censorious; they imply no superiority or authority on the part of him who utters them; nor do reflection or reprehension, which are simply turning the mind back upon what is disapproved. — from reproof
Reprehension is supposed to be calm and just, and with good intent; it is therefore a serious matter, however mild, and is capable of great force, as expressed in the phrase severe reprehension. — from reproof
Reflection is often from mere ill feeling, and is likely to be more personal and less impartial than reprehension; we often speak of unkind or unjust reflections. — from reproof
Rebuke may be given at the outset, or in the midst of an action; animadversion, reflection, reprehension, reproof, always follow the act; admonition is anticipatory, and meant to be preventive. — from reproof