tabu
/tæˈbuː/
NOUN
1. A social or customary prohibition
An inhibition or ban that results from social custom or emotional aversion.
1.1. Socially forbidden subjects or practices
Refers to a subject, behavior, or practice that is considered unacceptable or forbidden because of social customs, cultural traditions, or strong feelings of aversion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- acceptance
- approval
- permission
- allowance
Examples
- She cautiously approached the topic, aware that it was a tabu in their conversations.
- In certain cultures, breaking family traditions is deemed tabu.
- The unwritten rules of the group made discussing politics a tabu subject.
Related Words
- social convention
- cultural norm
- restriction
- inhibition
- stigma
- custom
NOUN
2. A sacred or forbidden thing
Something that may not be used, approached, or mentioned because it is regarded as sacred, particularly in Polynesian cultures.
2.1. Sacred cultural prohibitions
Refers to something regarded as sacred and therefore forbidden from ordinary use, contact, or mention.
Synonyms
Examples
- The traditional ceremony involved respecting various tabu practices.
Related Words
- sacredness
- sanctity
- religious restriction
- ritual prohibition
VERB
3. To prohibit or forbid
To mark something as taboo or to ban it.
3.1. Declaring something forbidden
Refers to marking a subject, behavior, or practice as unacceptable or formally prohibiting it.
Synonyms
- ban
- prohibit
- forbid
- proscribe
Antonyms
Related Words
- prohibition
- restriction
- interdiction
- proscription
VERB
4. To avoid something
To deliberately stay away from or refrain from something.
4.1. Deliberately avoiding something
Refers to choosing not to approach, discuss, or engage with something.
Synonyms
- avoid
- shun
- eschew
Related Words
- avoidance
- abstention
- refraining
- withdrawal