purdah

American  

[pur-duh] / ˈpɜr də /

Or purda,

noun

1. the seclusion of women from the sight of men or strangers, practiced by some Muslims and Hindus.

2. a screen, curtain, or veil used for this purpose.

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purdah British  

/ ˈpɜːdə /

noun

1. the custom in some Muslim and Hindu communities of keeping women in seclusion, with clothing that conceals them completely when they go out

2. a screen in a Hindu house used to keep the women out of view

3. a veil worn by Hindu women of high caste

4. informal  hiding or isolation

   the Treasury is currently locked in pre-budget purdah

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Etymology

Origin of purdah

1790–1800; < Hindi, Urdu pardah curtain < Persian

Example Sentences

Their purdah period comes just a day after the official announcement - just about squeaking in time for leaders to trumpet the success of the campaign on the airwaves before rules become stricter pre-election.

From BBC

It is startling to think that it is only eight months since Alonso was in purdah under Lampard and Chelsea was running the risk of missing out on qualifying for the Champions League.

From New York Times

“What is the concept of purdah?” he said, using a term that refers to the practice of seclusion, veiling or concealing dress for women in some South Asian communities.

From New York Times

During purdah the government is required to limit announcements that might influence the outcome of an election.

From BBC

Britain’s escape from diplomatic purdah may also be assisted by future changes in the US-China dynamic.

From The Guardian