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Definition of forbidding

forbidding

/fərˈbɪd.ɪŋ/
for · bid · ding
Adverb:forbiddingly
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forbidding Lexical Profile

forbidding Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Unfriendly, stern, or threatening in appearance or manner; tending to deter or repel approach.

Example

"The ancient fortress stood high on the cliff, its dark stone walls looking cold and forbidding against the winter sky."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for forbidding
Antonyms
View all antonyms for forbidding

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'forbidding' with 'forbidden': 'forbidding' means stern, hostile, or threatening in appearance, whereas 'forbidden' means prohibited or not allowed.

• Rhymes for forbidding

• Nearby Words

forbearing
forbearingly
forbid
forbidding
forbiddingly
force
forced

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the present participle of the verb 'forbid', which derives from Old English 'forbeodan', meaning 'to command against' or 'to restrain'. Its participial sense describing a stern, uninviting, or menacing appearance emerged in the late 17th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Forbidding. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/forbidding
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