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.

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

From Salon • May 17, 2026

Societies that forbid it are now discovering they can’t fully control them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 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

Few people would want to look for a new place in their 70s or, God forbid, 80s.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 12, 2026

I must not pour it all out like some imbecile and make him think I ask for pity, Amon forbid it!

From "The Golden Goblet" by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

Vocabulary lists containing forbid

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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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