Meaning & Definition of word "Forbidding"
to
Forbidding
/fərˈbɪdɪŋ/
adjective:
- 1. Having a grim or menacing appearance; appearing unfriendly or threatening.
- Example: The storm clouds loomed overhead, creating a forbidding atmosphere.
- 2. Strictly disallowing or prohibiting something.
- Example: The school's forbidding rules against running in the hallways kept students walking.
- 3. Difficult to approach or deal with due to intimidating barriers or circumstances.
- Example: The castle stood on a forbidding cliff, making it hard to reach.
- 4. Giving the impression that something bad will happen.
- Example: His forbidding glare made it clear that he was not in the mood for jokes.
Etymology
From Old English 'forbid(en)', from 'for-' meaning 'completely' and 'bid' meaning 'to command or order'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
forbidding atmosphere:
An environment that feels unwelcoming or threatening.
forbidding presence:
An individual whose demeanor instills fear or respect.
forbidding look:
A glance that conveys disapproval or threat.
Related Words
forbid:
To prevent someone from doing something.
forbiddingness:
The quality of being forbidding.
Slang Meanings of forbidding
Meaning: Intimidating or daunting.
Example Sentence: That teacher is really forbidding; no one wants to ask for help.
Meaning: Unfriendly or cold in behavior.
Example Sentence: The bouncer's forbidding attitude kept everyone in line.