The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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forbidding

adjective

/fərˈbɪd ɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of forbidding

Appearing intimidating, unwelcoming, or daunting.
"The dark and forbidding forest loomed ahead, giving the travelers a sense of trepidation."

Detailed meaning of forbidding

It suggests an atmosphere or appearance that deters or discourages approach or entry. When something is described as forbidding, it often evokes a sense of danger, harshness, or sternness. This can refer to physical features, such as a forbidding landscape or an imposing structure, that create a sense of unease or challenge. It can also relate to attitudes or behaviors that project an air of strictness, aloofness, or unapproachability. The term forbidding can convey a sense of inaccessibility, indicating that something may be difficult to overcome, understand, or penetrate. Overall, the adjective forbidding characterizes something that seems inhospitable, uninviting, or discouraging, often causing hesitation or reluctance in those who encounter it.

Example sentences containing forbidding

1. The fortress atop the hill had a forbidding appearance, with its high walls and guarded entrance.
2. The teacher's forbidding gaze silenced the noisy classroom.
3. She found his stern and forbidding demeanor off-putting.
4. The storm clouds gathered, casting a forbidding shadow over the landscape.
5. The abandoned house had a forbidding aura, deterring anyone from entering.
6. The icy winds and freezing temperatures made the mountain pass forbidding to cross.

History and etymology of forbidding

The adjective 'forbidding' is derived from the verb 'forbid,' which has its roots in Old English. In Old English, 'forbidan' meant 'to prohibit' or 'to command against.' The term 'forbidding' emerged from this verb to describe something that appears intimidating, unwelcoming, or daunting, often due to strict rules, restrictions, or a stern demeanor. When a place or person is described as 'forbidding,' it conveys the idea that it discourages or inhibits approach or interaction, creating an aura of intimidation or reluctance. The etymology of 'forbidding' reflects its historical connection to the act of prohibition and the idea that something or someone may actively discourage or forbid entry or engagement, resulting in an unwelcoming or intimidating appearance.

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Further usage examples of forbidding

1. The warning signs and barbed wire fence gave the area a forbidding feel.
2. The company's forbidding policies made it difficult for employees to voice their concerns.
3. The harsh and forbidding desert landscape stretched out before them, devoid of any signs of life.
4. The castle's forbidding exterior concealed its rich history and architectural beauty within.
5. His forbidding expression made it clear that he was not to be trifled with.
6. The forbidding fortress stood atop the desolate mountain, shrouded in mist.
7. Her stern expression was forbidding, deterring anyone from approaching.
8. The dark clouds cast a forbidding shadow over the barren landscape.
9. The ancient ruins had a forbidding aura, hinting at their enigmatic past.
10. The forest at night felt forbidding, with eerie sounds echoing through.
11. The stormy sea presented a forbidding challenge for the experienced sailors.
12. The forbidding silence in the haunted house sent shivers down their spines.
13. The forbidding task of climbing the towering peak daunted even the bravest.
14. The abandoned asylum had a forbidding atmosphere, filled with eerie whispers.
15. His forbidding demeanor made it difficult for others to approach him.
16. The desolate desert appeared forbidding, with scorching heat and no shelter.
17. The forbidding rules of the exclusive club made it hard to gain membership.
18. The thick, forbidding fog concealed the path ahead, creating uncertainty.
19. The forbidding cliffs were a challenge for rock climbers seeking adventure.
20. The labyrinthine alleyways of the old city felt forbidding to newcomers.
21. The forbidding warning signs deterred hikers from entering the dangerous area.
22. The forbidding courtroom atmosphere heightened the tension during the trial.
23. The abandoned shipwreck had a forbidding presence on the lonely shore.
24. The forbidding expression on his face hinted at the seriousness of the situation.
25. The forbidding wilderness was uncharted territory, filled with potential danger.