forbidding
UK: fəˈbɪd.ɪŋ | US: fərˈbɪd.ɪŋ
adj. appearing unfriendly or threatening; intimidating
adj. prohibiting or restricting something
The word "forbidding" originates from the Old English verb "forbēodan," combining "for-" (against, away) and "bēodan" (to command). Over time, "forbid" evolved to mean "to prohibit," and the suffix "-ing" was added to form the adjective, describing something that appears prohibitive or threatening. The logic reflects a progression from literal prohibition ("forbid") to an intimidating appearance ("forbidding").
The castle's forbidding walls discouraged invaders.
Her forbidding glare silenced the room.
The sign had a forbidding message: "No trespassing."
The mountain's forbidding peaks were covered in snow.
His forbidding tone made it clear he wouldn’t tolerate excuses.