Meaning of ostracize in English

Table of contents
  1. Pronunciation
  2. Verb
    1. Etymology
    2. Definitions

  1. Pronunciation

    /ˈɑstrəˌsaɪz/

    US accent Play button

    UK accent Play button

  1. Verb

    ostracize

    Etymology

    mid 17th century: from Greek ostrakizein, from ostrakon‘shell or potsherd’ (on which names were written in voting to banish unpopular citizens)

    Definitions

    1. expel from a community or group

    Derived terms

  2. 2. avoid speaking to or dealing with

    Examples

    • « Ever since I spoke up, my colleagues ostracize me »

    Derived terms

Browse dictionary