Definitions

forbade

[fer-bad, -beyd, fawr-] / fərˈbæd, -ˈbeɪd, fɔr- /

VERB

outlaw, prohibit an action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban block cancel censor deny deprive disallow enjoin exclude freeze halt hinder impede inhibit oppose preclude prevent proscribe restrain restrict rule out stop

STRONG

check debar embargo forestall forfend interdict nix obstruct obviate spike stymie taboo veto withhold

WEAK

declare illegal hold up lock up put the chill on say no shut down shut out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

add admit advance aid allow approve assist continue encourage facilitate forward free go help include let go permit push release support welcome

WEAK

authorize sanction

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Staff at a North Korean restaurant in Dandong forbade AFP journalists from filming or taking photos of a large screen showing a patriotic music and dance performance.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

Not long after, adults will follow suit and find themselves relishing the activities they once forbade their children from.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

And Handorf bought land near La Puente, which he forbade his family from selling.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

England’s king forbade English ships from providing any relief.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 30, 2025

But if she told Marcus and Zak, then that means they cheated and sabotaged us, which the Augurs pointedly forbade.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir