What is the meaning of taboo?

noun

  • A prejudice (especially in Polynesia and other South Pacific islands) that prohibits the use or mention of something because of its sacred nature.
  • An inhibition or ban resulting from social custom or emotional aversion.

verb

  • Declare as sacred and forbidden.

adjective

  • Excluded from use or mention.
    • usage: "forbidden fruit"; "in our house dancing and playing cards were out"; "a taboo subject"
  • Forbidden to profane use especially in South Pacific islands.
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APAWordNet. (2010). Taboo. Retrieved September 20, 2026, from http://smartdefine.org/taboo/definitions/1184990
ChicagoWordNet. 2010. "Taboo" http://smartdefine.org/taboo/definitions/1184990 (accessed September 20, 2026).
HarvardWordNet 2010, Taboo, Smart Define, viewed 20 September, 2026, <http://smartdefine.org/taboo/definitions/1184990>.
MLAWordNet. "Taboo" 23 October 2010. Web. 20 September 2026. <http://smartdefine.org/taboo/definitions/1184990>
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