interdict
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈɪn.tə.dɪkt/
KK: /ˈɪntərdɪkt/
noun
Definition
A legal or religious order that prohibits certain actions or participation in specific activities.
Example
The court issued an interdict to prevent the construction of the building.
Conversation
Did you hear about the interdict that was issued against the town's activities?
Yeah, I read something about it. What exactly does it mean for the residents?
It basically prohibits them from holding any public events until further notice.
That's tough! I hope they can resolve it soon and get back to normal.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
prohibition
ban
forbiddance
Antonyms
permission
allowance
authorization
transitive verb
Definition
To stop or prevent something from happening, especially by using authority or legal means.
Example
The government decided to interdict the shipment of illegal drugs.
Tense Forms
Past: interdicted
Past Participle: interdicted
Conversation
Did you hear about the new law that will interdict certain types of fishing in the area?
Yeah, I think it's a good idea to protect the fish population.
Exactly! It's important to interdict practices that harm our environment.
Root Explanation
Interdict → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "dicere" (meaning to say or declare). The word refers to a declaration that prohibits or forbids something, effectively placing a barrier between the action and the subject.
Memory Tip
Think of a declaration ('dicere') that places a barrier ('inter-') between what is allowed and what is forbidden — that's why interdict means to prohibit.
Visually Confused Words
uninterdicted
indict