forbid

[fer-bid, fawr-] / fərˈbɪd, 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.

The main reason drivers do not generally do this is that their contracts forbid it.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

God forbid a lady feels ravenous during her three p.m. slump.

From Salon • May 17, 2026

Displays of it, particularly in architecture or public art, are often perceived as tacky, kitschy or, heaven forbid, nouveau riche.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The rules explicitly forbid listings that have “been part of selective or gated marketing practices that require a consumer to work with the listing brokerage to get access to the Listing.”

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

“We must cleanse our spirits for their coming. We must forgo shifgrethor, forbid all acts of vengeance, and unite together without envy as brothers of one Hearth.”

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Vocabulary lists containing forbid

Beowulf vocabulary

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"The Tragedy of Macbeth," Vocabulary from Act 1

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"Names/Nombres" by Julia Alvarez

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