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

• 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

American Airlines last week prohibited passengers from recharging power banks using in-flight outlets, matching the policies of Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Drones and key components will be prohibited from being sold, rented or brought into the Chinese capital.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Pilots are prohibited from operating drones above 400 feet altitude unless they have authorization from the FAA.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

Solicitor Gen. D. John Sauer said Congress had prohibited “judicial micromanagement” of these decisions, and none of six conservatives disagreed.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

Another act of Parliament prohibited the reproduction of any statement made by a banned person.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

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