prohibit

verb

pro·​hib·​it prō-ˈhi-bət 

prə-

prohibited; prohibiting; prohibits

transitive verb

1

: to forbid by authority : enjoin

2

a

: to prevent from doing something

b

: preclude

Synonyms

• ban
• bar
• enjoin
• forbid
• interdict
• outlaw
• proscribe

Choose the Right Synonym for prohibit

forbid, prohibit, interdict, inhibit mean to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done.

forbid implies that the order is from one in authority and that obedience is expected.

smoking is forbidden in the building

prohibit suggests the issuing of laws, statutes, or regulations.

prohibited the sale of liquor

interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose.

practices interdicted by the church

inhibit implies restraints or restrictions that amount to prohibitions, not only by authority but also by the exigencies of the time or situation.

conditions inhibiting the growth of free trade

Examples of prohibit in a Sentence

The rules prohibit dating a coworker.

The prison's electric fence prohibits escape.

Recent Examples on the Web

Drone operation is regulated by the FAA, and state and federal agencies wildlife agencies usually prohibit drones in many natural areas, and usually forbid intentionally or inadvertently harassing wildlife with them. —Alice Jones Webb, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024

As noted by employees in recent videos celebrating Kennedy’s potential role in the Trump administration, IRS rules prohibit nonprofits from directly or indirectly supporting political campaigns. —Brandy Zadrozny, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024

The zone does not completely ban radio signals; only the strictest regulations prohibit transmissions and electrical equipment within two and 10 miles of the observatory. —Michael Kan, PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024

The Voting Rights Act prohibits attempts to intimidate, threaten or coerce voters throughout all steps of the voting process, including registering and casting a ballot, according to the U.S. Justice Department. —Conor Murray, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin prohibitus, past participle of prohibēre to keep off, from pro- forward + habēre to hold — more at pro-, give

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

prohibit

verb

pro·​hib·​it prō-ˈhib-ət 

1

: to forbid by authority

prohibit parking

2

: to make impossible

the high walls prohibit escape