Definition

To prevent someone from doing something or to exclude them from a place or activity.

Example

The school decided to debar students who did not follow the rules from participating in the event.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they might debar students who don't maintain a certain GPA.

Really? That seems a bit harsh, don't you think?

Yeah, it's unfair to those who are trying their best.

Exactly! Everyone deserves a chance to succeed without being debarred.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Debar is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "barra" (from Latin *barra*, meaning barrier or bar). The word means to remove or keep someone away from something, as if putting a barrier in their way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') someone from a 'barrier' ('barra') — that's why debar means to keep someone away from something.

Visually Confused Words