Definition

A law or rule that makes something illegal or forbids it.

Example

The prohibition of smoking in public places has improved air quality.

Conversation

Did you know that there was a time in America called prohibition?

Yeah, I read about it in history class; it was such a crazy period.

I can't believe they actually banned alcohol for so many years!

I know, right? It's interesting how it changed society in so many ways.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prohibition → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning in favor of or for) and "habere" (meaning to have or hold), combined with the suffix "-tion" (indicating the action or process). The word "prohibition" refers to the action of forbidding or holding back something.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'for' something ('pro-') and 'holding' it back ('habere') — that's why prohibition means the act of forbidding something.

Visually Confused Words