Banishment is a term that has been used throughout history to describe the act of exiling or removing a person from a particular place or society. It has been used as a form of punishment, a means of social control, and a way to maintain order. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of banishment, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Banishment is defined as the act of expelling or exiling someone from a place or society. It is a form of punishment that involves removing a person from a community or society, often as a result of their actions or behavior. Banishment can be temporary or permanent, and it can be imposed by a government, a community, or an individual.
Origin
The practice of banishment dates back to ancient times, when it was used as a means of punishment and social control. In ancient Greece, for example, banishment was used as a form of punishment for crimes such as murder, theft, and treason. In medieval Europe, banishment was used as a means of resolving disputes between individuals or families.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, banishment is defined as “the act of expelling someone from a place or society, often as a punishment.” Merriam-Webster defines banishment as “the act of banishing or the state of being banished.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “the act of sending someone away from a place or country as a punishment.”
Associations
Banishment is often associated with punishment and exile. It is seen as a harsh and severe form of punishment, and it can have a profound impact on the person who is banished. Banishment can also be associated with social control and maintaining order within a community or society.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of banishment include exile, expulsion, removal, ostracism, and deportation. These words all refer to the act of removing someone from a particular place or society.
Antonyms
Antonyms of banishment include inclusion, acceptance, welcome, and integration. These words refer to the opposite of banishment, which is being included and accepted within a particular community or society.
The same root words
The root word of banishment is “banish,” which comes from the Old English word “bannan,” meaning “to proclaim or command.” Other words that share this root include “banns” (a public announcement of a forthcoming marriage) and “ban” (a legal prohibition or decree).
Example Sentences
- The king banished the traitor from the kingdom.
- The community banished the troublemaker from the town.
- The government deported the illegal immigrants as a form of banishment.
- The student was ostracized and faced banishment from the school.
- The criminal was sentenced to a lifetime of banishment from society.