prohibited

American  

[proh-hib-i-tid] / proʊˈhɪb ɪ tɪd /

adjective

1. forbidden by authority or law.

   A scanner should be able to detect any prohibited object that the traveler may be carrying concealed in their clothing.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of prohibit.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• unprohibited
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of prohibited

prohibit ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Explanation

When something is prohibited, it's not allowed. If you see the sign "Swimming is prohibited," stay out of the water. Whether used as a verb ("You prohibited your friend from entering") or an adjective ("The prohibited word escaped your lips"), prohibited means something was forbidden — a no-no. You often see it in signs like "Smoking prohibited." It's a strong word, indicating that something is banned and suggesting dire consequences if the ban is not obeyed. On the other hand, when something is prohibited it might seem more appealing.

Example Sentences

States argue that the conditions do not explain what activities are prohibited for entities that receive grants.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

It said further checks were carried out throughout the process, and some work took place during nesting season due to delays but this was not prohibited.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

We are explicitly prohibited from censoring broadcasters, but this is censorship.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

Nonlawyers are generally prohibited from controlling law firms, but critics say investors have devised ways to gain control over their operations without technically owning them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

The Court prohibited jurors from hearing “victim impact” statements because they were too inflammatory and introduced arbitrariness into the capital sentencing process.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Related Words

• banned
• barred
• contraband
• illegal
• illicit
• restricted