exclude

verb

ex·​clude ik-ˈsklüd 

excluded; excluding

transitive verb

1

a

: to prevent or restrict the entrance of

b

: to bar from participation, consideration, or inclusion

2

: to expel or bar especially from a place or position previously occupied

excluder noun

Synonyms of exclude

• eliminate
• ban
• prohibit
• prevent
• bar

Examples of exclude in a Sentence

You can share files with some people on the network while excluding others.

The prices on the menu exclude tax.

Recent Examples on the Web

The architecture promotes an indoor-outdoor feel, allowing in views of sea, sky, and desert while excluding distractions. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2026

That figure excludes its largest heavy-duty trucks, which are classified differently. — Michael Wayland, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026

The Broward School District repeatedly mismanaged a competitive bidding process to exclude one technology vendor and later steer business toward another, the county’s top watchdog has concluded. — Scott Travis, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026

Opponents say the proposition’s vague wording could result in vital services being excluded from the list of program expenses permitted in the 90% of revenues, prompting clinics to cut programs to avoid financial penalties. — Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin excludere, from ex- + claudere to close — more at close entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for exclude

• accrued
• allude
• collude
• conclude
• construed
• debuted
• delude
• elude
• endued
• ensued
• eschewed
• etude

Kids Definition

exclude

verb

ex·​clude iks-ˈklüd 

excluded; excluding

: to shut or keep out

excludable

-ˈklüd-ə-bəl

adjective

exclusion

-ˈklü-zhən

noun

Legal Definition

exclude

transitive verb

ex·​clude ik-ˈsklüd 

excluded; excluding

1

: to prevent or restrict the entry or admission of

exclude hearsay evidence

2

: to remove from participation, consideration, or inclusion (as in insurance coverage)