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proscribe

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verb pro·scribe \prō-ˈskrīb\

Simple Definition of proscribe

  • : to make (something) illegal : to not allow (something)

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of proscribe

proscribed

proscribing

  1. transitive verb
  2. 1 :  to publish the name of as condemned to death with the property of the condemned forfeited to the state

  3. 2 :  to condemn or forbid as harmful or unlawful :  prohibit

proscriber

noun

Examples of proscribe in a sentence

  1. acts that are proscribed by law

  2. <regulations proscribe the use of electronic devices on board a plane while it is landing>



Did You Know?

Proscribe and "prescribe" each have a Latin-derived prefix that means "before" attached to the verb "scribe" (from scribere, meaning "to write"). Yet the two words have very distinct, often nearly opposite meanings. Why? In a way, you could say it's the law. In the 15th and 16th centuries both words had legal implications. To "proscribe" was to publish the name of a person who had been condemned, outlawed, or banished. To prescribe meant "to lay down a rule," including legal rules or orders.

Origin and Etymology of proscribe

Latin proscribere to publish, proscribe, from pro- before + scribere to write — more at scribe


First Known Use: 1560


Law Dictionary

proscribe

play
transitive verb pro·scribe \prō-ˈskrīb\

Legal Definition of proscribe

proscribed

proscribing

  1. :  to condemn or forbid as harmful or unlawful



Origin and Etymology of proscribe

Latin proscribere to publish, proscribe, from pro- before + scribere to write



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