no-no

noun

ˈnō-ˌnō 

plural no-no's or no-nos

1

: something unacceptable or forbidden

2

: no-hitter

Examples of no-no in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This uneven wear on the underbelly of a sneaker is a big no-no — prompting wearers to rotate out their running shoes at rapid rates. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2026

Additionally, make sure to toss any fleece blankets, Peck adds, noting that keeping them on display—or worse, using them as sofa covers—is a major no-no for adults. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 21 Aug. 2026

Apparently, the broadcast producer decided this was a no-no and either didn’t let Chex know or realized too late what was happening. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 17 Aug. 2026

As has no doubt become evident even at this early stage of our article, identikit stadiums of the flat-pack variety located in retail parks are something of a no-no for this writer. — Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for no-no

• kono
• mono
• ono
• phono

Kids Definition

no-no

noun

ˈnō-ˌnō

plural no-no's or no-nos

: something that is unacceptable or forbidden