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.

But Jackson’s estate belatedly realized a settlement he had signed with the boy’s family forbade it from using his story for commercial purposes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

Lawyers for the Jackson estate realised there was a clause in the settlement with Chandler that forbade the depiction or mention of him in any movie.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

In a video posted Wednesday, Transport Minister Said bin Hamood bin Said Al Maawali said that international conventions signed by Oman forbade taking tolls for passage, but that talks were ongoing with the foreign ministry.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

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

"I understand that,” said Govinda, "but that is just what the Illustrious One called illusion. He preached benevolence, forbearance, sympathy, patience—but not love. He forbade us to bind ourselves to earthly love.”

From "Siddhartha" by Hermann Hesse