taboo (Meaning)

Wordnet

taboo (n)

a prejudice (especially in Polynesia and other South Pacific islands) that prohibits the use or mention of something because of its sacred nature

an inhibition or ban resulting from social custom or emotional aversion

Wordnet

taboo (v)

declare as sacred and forbidden

Wordnet

taboo (s)

excluded from use or mention

forbidden to profane use especially in South Pacific islands

Webster

taboo (n.)

A total prohibition of intercourse with, use of, or approach to, a given person or thing under pain of death, -- an interdict of religious origin and authority, formerly common in the islands of Polynesia; interdiction.

Webster

taboo (v. t.)

To put under taboo; to forbid, or to forbid the use of; to interdict approach to, or use of; as, to taboo the ground set apart as a sanctuary for criminals.

Webster

taboo (a.)

Set apart or sacred by religious custom among certain races of Polynesia, New Zealand, etc., and forbidden to certain persons or uses; hence, prohibited under severe penalties; interdicted; as, food, places, words, customs, etc., may be taboo.

taboo Sentence Examples

  1. Discussing certain topics, such as religion or politics, was considered taboo in the conservative community.
  2. The taboo of incest prevailed throughout the ancient and modern world, prohibiting romantic relationships within certain familial bonds.
  3. Exploring forbidden knowledge or practicing witchcraft was taboo in medieval Europe, subjecting individuals to accusations of heresy.
  4. The topic of menstruation was often taboo in many cultures, leading to societal shame and misconceptions.
  5. Nudity was taboo in certain public settings, where modesty and decency were expected.
  6. Swearing or using offensive language was considered taboo in formal or polite company.
  7. Homosexuality or same-sex relationships were taboo in many societies until relatively recent times.
  8. Violating cultural or religious norms could result in being labeled as taboo and ostracized from the community.
  9. Certain foods or ingredients were considered taboo in some cultures due to religious beliefs or dietary restrictions.
  10. Breaking a taboo often carried significant social, cultural, or even legal consequences, shaping societal norms and behaviors.

FAQs About the word taboo

a prejudice (especially in Polynesia and other South Pacific islands) that prohibits the use or mention of something because of its sacred nature, an inhibition

no-no, embargo, veto, limitation,prohibition, ban, restriction, suppression, prevention, refusal

tolerance, toleration, license, permission, okay, permission, clearance, consent, allowance, permitting

Discussing certain topics, such as religion or politics, was considered taboo in the conservative community.

The taboo of incest prevailed throughout the ancient and modern world, prohibiting romantic relationships within certain familial bonds.

Exploring forbidden knowledge or practicing witchcraft was taboo in medieval Europe, subjecting individuals to accusations of heresy.

The topic of menstruation was often taboo in many cultures, leading to societal shame and misconceptions.