Definition of: tabu

(tə·b′, ta-) noun
1. Among primitive peoples, especially the Polynesians, a religious and social interdict against the touching or mentioning of a certain person, thing, or place, the uttering of a certain name, or the performing of a certain action, because it is considered sacred, protective, dangerous, unclean, or possessed of mysterious powers.
2. The system or practice of such interdicts or prohibitions.
3. Any restriction or ban founded on custom or social convention.
—adjective
1. Consecrated or prohibited by tabu.
2. Banned or forbidden by social authority or convention.
—v.t.
1. To place under tabu.
2. To exclude; ostracize. Also spelled taboo. [<Tonga]