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Censor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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censor

[ˈsɛnsər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

media

A person who is authorized to examine books, films, or other material and to remove or suppress what is considered morally, politically, or otherwise objectionable.

Synonyms

inspector, scrutinizer, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
censor

Apply this word when referring to someone who reviews and removes inappropriate or sensitive content. Censorship often involves media, books, or speech, and can be government-imposed or institutional.

  • The government appointed a new censor to monitor the news broadcasts.
  • The movie was heavily censored before release to avoid offending viewers.
scrutinizer

This term is suitable for a person who observes or examines something very closely and critically. It is often used for detailed, thorough investigations.

  • The scientist acted as a scrutinizer, analyzing every detail of the experiment.
  • She was a scrutinizer of fine art, examining each piece with great care.
supervisor

This word is best used for someone who oversees the work of others, ensuring tasks are completed properly and providing guidance as needed. It is a common term in workplace management.

  • The supervisor made sure that all employees followed the company's guidelines.
  • During her shift, the supervisor ensured that the tasks were completed on time and correctly.
inspector

Use this word for someone whose job is to examine objects, systems, or processes to ensure they meet specific standards. Inspectors are often found in various industries like safety, health, and education.

  • The building inspector checked the construction site for code violations.
  • The health inspector visited the restaurant to ensure it met hygiene standards.

Examples of usage

  • The film was banned by the censor for its explicit content.
  • The censor cut out several scenes from the book before it could be published.
Context #2 | Verb

social media

To examine and suppress unacceptable parts of (something, such as a publication).

Synonyms

ban, restrict, suppress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
censor

When something, like a book, movie, or speech, is reviewed and parts are hidden or removed because they are considered inappropriate or harmful. Often used in contexts involving media, governments, and public information.

  • The government decided to censor the movie because of its violent scenes.
  • Certain topics may be censored on social media platforms.
suppress

When something is forcibly put an end to, often using authority or power. Usually has a negative connotation and is used in contexts involving control over information, emotions, or actions.

  • The regime tried to suppress the protests by deploying the military.
  • She had to suppress her anger during the meeting.
ban

When something is officially forbidden, making it illegal or not allowed. Commonly used in law, regulations, and policies.

  • Smoking in public places has been banned to protect non-smokers.
  • The country decided to ban the import of certain goods to protect local industries.
restrict

When limits or controls are put on something, making it less accessible or available. Often used in contexts where there is a need to control usage, access, or behavior.

  • The company decided to restrict access to certain files to maintain security.
  • Due to the pandemic, there were restrictions on international travel.

Examples of usage

  • The social media platform censored the post for violating community guidelines.
  • The government censors online content to maintain control.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from ancient Rome, where 'censor' referred to officials assessing the population and moral behavior.
  • In the past, governments would censor political writings to control public opinion and maintain authority.
  • Censorship has been utilized throughout history during wars to prevent sensitive information from reaching enemies.

Literature

  • Many classic novels, including '1984' by George Orwell, depict censorship as a tool for controlling society.
  • Books like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' often face challenges and bans due to their themes, highlighting the ongoing struggle against censorship.
  • Some authors use characters to push back against censorship, representing the fight for freedom of expression.

Technology

  • In the digital age, many websites face scrutiny and are censored by governmental entities to control online content.
  • Social media platforms have developed community guidelines, which can lead to posts being censored if deemed inappropriate.
  • Algorithms can act as censors, determining what content is most visible or hidden from view on the internet.

Psychology

  • Censorship can influence how individuals perceive information, leading to a skewed understanding of reality.
  • The phenomenon of 'reactance' may occur when people feel their freedom to access information is restricted, leading to resistance against censorship.
  • Studies show that censorship can create curiosity and increase the desire to explore restricted topics, often making them more appealing.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows and movies often undergo censorship to ensure they are suitable for audiences of all ages.
  • Certain popular songs are altered for radio play, replacing explicit lyrics with cleaner versions to avoid censorship.
  • The impact of censorship in art has led to some iconic works being created as responses to restrictions, showcasing the importance of creative freedom.

Origin of 'censor'

The word 'censor' originated from the Latin word 'censor', originally referring to a Roman magistrate responsible for supervising public morality. Over time, it evolved to describe individuals or authorities who examine and suppress objectionable material. The concept of censorship has been present throughout history, often used for controlling information and expression.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,558, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.