1. Forbidden to profane use especially in South Pacific islands
   "Certain foods were considered tabu during religious festivals";
   - taboo
    
2. Excluded from use or mention
   "The topic was considered tabu in polite conversation";
   - forbidden, out, prohibited, proscribed, taboo, verboten

1. A prejudice (especially in Polynesia and other South Pacific islands) that prohibits the use or mention of something because of its sacred nature
   "Breaking the tabu against eating certain foods could result in severe punishment";
   - taboo
    
2. An inhibition or ban resulting from social custom or emotional aversion
   "The tabu on certain foods was strictly observed in their culture";
   - taboo

Derived forms: tabus

See also: impermissible, sacred

Type of: bias, inhibition, preconception, prejudice

Encyclopedia: Tabu, a Story of the South Seas