taboo
This term carries a heavy weight of social or spiritual sanction, implying that a violation would lead to ostracization or moral condemnation rather than just a legal penalty. It describes a boundary that is felt instinctively within a culture, often surrounding topics of death, sex, or sacred rituals, where the prohibition is maintained by collective psychological pressure.
As a noun, it functions as a countable entity, allowing for the discussion of multiple specific prohibitions within a single society. When used as an adjective, it describes the nature of the act or topic itself, signaling that it is socially off-limits or forbidden.
Meanings
Prohibited or restricted by social custom or religious belief.
Many topics were considered taboo in the Victorian era.
A social or religious custom prohibiting or forbidding a particular practice or association.
The culture has a strict taboo against eating certain animals.
Examples
It is a taboo.