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

Sharron believes Caitlin "would still be here" if the UK had graduated driving licences which forbade newly qualified, young drivers from carrying passengers their own age.

From BBC • Jan. 6, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 30, 2025

Organizers forbade several of their key moves as their brusque victories weren’t telegenic.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 3, 2025

“I would not have you give words or time to Lord Hamlet henceforward,” he said in a hard, cold voice that forbade me to defy him again.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein