Banish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Literature

• In Shakespeare's plays, characters often face banishment as punishment, highlighting themes of exile and justice.
• In the classic tale of 'The Odyssey', Odysseus faces many challenges that could be seen as forms of banishment from his home.
• Banished characters often undergo significant personal growth, making their return, if it happens, even more impactful.

Psychology

• Being 'banished' can be linked to feelings of isolation and rejection, affecting one's mental health.
• Research shows that social exclusion can lead to emotional distress and changes in behavior.
• The concept of banishment goes beyond physical removal; it can also signify emotional separation in relationships.

Pop Culture

• In various films and stories, banishment is often portrayed dramatically, where characters must overcome great odds to return.
• Popular games often include mechanics where players can 'banish' cards or characters to help create strategies.
• Reality shows sometimes feature scenarios where contestants face 'banishment' from a group, adding to viewer tension.

History

• Throughout history, many societies have used banishment as a form of punishment, reflecting the community’s power over individuals.
• In ancient Rome, banishment was a common penalty for those who committed serious offenses, allowing the state to maintain order without direct execution.
• Famous individuals, like banished Roman politician Cicero, have had their lives changed drastically due to their exile.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'banish' comes from the Old French 'banir', which was derived from the Latin 'banire', meaning to 'proclaim' or 'summon'.
• Originally, it meant to announce someone was no longer welcome, reflecting its roots in public declarations.
• The word has been used since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the English language.

The word 'banish' has its roots in Old French and Latin, with 'bannir' and 'bannire' meaning 'to proclaim, ban.' The concept of banishment has been used throughout history as a form of punishment or exile. It has been a common practice in various societies to remove individuals or things deemed undesirable from a specific area.

See also: ban, banal, banned, banner, banning, banter.

With rank #16,884, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 16881 leftist
• 16882 profiling
• 16883 forgiving
• 16884 banish
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• 16886 skewed
• 16887 apparition
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