interdict 1 of 2

interdict

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb interdict differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of interdict are forbid, inhibit, and prohibit. While all these words mean "to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done," interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose.

practices interdicted by the church

When is forbid a more appropriate choice than interdict?

While in some cases nearly identical to interdict, forbid implies that the order is from one in authority and that obedience is expected.

smoking is forbidden in the building

When is it sensible to use inhibit instead of interdict?

Although the words inhibit and interdict have much in common, inhibit implies restraints or restrictions that amount to prohibitions, not only by authority but also by the exigencies of the time or situation.

conditions inhibiting the growth of free trade

In what contexts can prohibit take the place of interdict?

In some situations, the words prohibit and interdict are roughly equivalent. However, prohibit suggests the issuing of laws, statutes, or regulations.

prohibited the sale of liquor

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of interdict
Noun
Military officials say the combined strike group not only interdicts traffickers at sea but also provides the capacity to land Marines ashore, if ordered. Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2025 There are no restraining orders, injunctions or interdicts anywhere. Brendan Le, Peoplemag, 9 May 2024
Verb
Here are key elements concerning immigration: Border wall $46.5 billion toward fortifying the U.S.-Mexico border wall and interdicting migrant smugglers at sea. Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2025 Last Monday, a crew aboard a Coast Guard boat that is part of the Maritime Safety and Security Team in Los Angeles/Long Beach interdicted five people aboard a 20-foot pleasure craft, approximately 4 miles southwest of Point Loma. Philip Diehl, Mercury News, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for interdict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for interdict
Noun
  • Some of the commandments overlap with criminal law, such as prohibitions on murder and theft, but others do not.
    Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Oct. 2025
  • In addition to the cut-through traffic prohibitions for trucks on residential streets, city staff will work with the City Council on ordinance revisions to strengthen penalties on truck operators and owners who do not comply with signs and restrictions.
    Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The Antideficiency Act prohibits agencies from accepting unpaid labor, even if workers are willing to work for free.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • From Monday, September 29, through Friday, October 3, all civilian drone flights are prohibited in Danish airspace in connection with the EU summit.
    Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Lloyd, who had dropped into coverage, intercepted it.
    The Athletic NFL Staff, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • Israeli naval ships intercepted a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza and detained several activists, including Greta Thunberg.
    Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 6 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • These differentiating numbers are due to how the two organizations track book bans.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 5 Oct. 2025
  • The 1970s had seen a mass exodus of Argentina’s star players abroad, particularly to Spain, where a ban on foreign players had recently been lifted.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Just a few years ago public displays of music and art were forbidden, and both are now mainstream.
    Manal Albarakati, semafor.com, 1 Oct. 2025
  • This behavior is legally acceptable in some towns and unclear or forbidden in others.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • However, there were not enough votes to outlaw it.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Despite the growing frustration surrounding the play, Payton remains steadfast in his belief that the play should not be outlawed.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Interdict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interdict. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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