forbidden

adjective

for·​bid·​den fər-ˈbi-dᵊn 

fȯr-

1

: not permitted or allowed

2

: not conforming to the usual selection principles

—used of quantum phenomena

forbidden transition

forbidden radiation

forbidden spectral line

Synonyms of forbidden

• prohibited
• banned

Examples of forbidden in a Sentence

trespassing is forbidden

Recent Examples on the Web

And thank God for that, because forbidden love is my favorite type of drama to watch on Love Island. — Kathleen Walsh, Vulture, 16 June 2026

Women, whether secular or religious, remain forbidden to read, write or tell stories. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026

As Venus and Uranus harmonize, permit yourself to indulge a forbidden desire. — Usa Today, USA Today, 15 June 2026

Benchley’s Jaws has several subplots that didn’t make it into the script (notably, a steamy and forbidden romance), but its seafaring action sequences will be familiar to any fans of the movie. — Tessa Yang, PEOPLE, 2 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing forbidden

• forbidden fruit
• forbidden rice