Definitions

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.

If, heaven forbid, something breaks or gets stolen, it will be your responsibility.

From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026

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

From Salon • May 17, 2026

The First Amendment doesn’t forbid objective teaching about the role of faith in history, literature and civic life.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 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

Lot was angry about the journey and wished to forbid it, but she knew how to deal with that The Queen drew herself silently out of bed, and went to her coffer.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

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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