Meaning & Definition
verb
to order someone not to do something; to prohibit.
The school does not forbid students from using their phones during lunch.
to prevent someone from doing something.
The law forbids the sale of alcohol to minors.
to make something impossible or impractical.
The high cost of living in the city forbids many families from buying a home.
to express an order against something or someone.
Her parents forbade her from going to the party.
to declare something not allowed.
The organization forbids any form of discrimination among its members.
Etymology
Middle English 'forbiden', from Old English 'forbidda', meaning 'to prohibit'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
forbid the use of:
to prohibit using something
forbidden fruit:
something that is desired but off-limits
forbidden zone:
an area where entry is prohibited
Slang Meanings
No can do
I wanted to borrow her dress, but she said 'no can do'.
Not allowed
Sneaking into the party? Not allowed.