Meaning & Definition of word "Taboo"
to
Taboo
/təˈbu/
noun:
- 1. A social or cultural prohibition or restriction against a particular practice, word, or behavior.
- Example: In many cultures, discussing death is considered a taboo.
- 2. Something that is prohibited or restricted by social custom.
- Example: Eating certain animals is a taboo in various religions.
adjective:
- 1. Prohibited or restricted by social custom.
- Example: Using that word in polite conversation is considered taboo.
- 2. Avoided for reasons of social or cultural sensitivity.
- Example: The topic of mental health remains taboo in some communities.
Etymology
From Tongan 'tapu', meaning 'sacred' or 'forbidden'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
taboo subject:
A topic that is regarded as inappropriate to discuss.
break a taboo:
To do something that is usually prohibited by social norms.
social taboo:
A cultural norm that forbids certain behaviors.
Related Words
prohibition:
The act of forbidding something.
sanction:
A penalty for disobeying a law or rule.
cultural norm:
A standard or rule that is accepted within a culture.
Slang Meanings of taboo
Meaning: Something that is considered socially unacceptable.
Example Sentence: Talking about salaries is a taboo in our office.
Meaning: Breaking the unspoken rules of a community.
Example Sentence: He really crossed a taboo line by flirting with her at the meeting.