outlaw
UK: ˈaʊt.lɔː | US: ˈaʊt.lɔː
n. a person who has broken the law and is hiding to avoid punishment
vt. to declare someone an outlaw; to ban or prohibit something
The word "outlaw" originates from Old English ūtlaga, borrowed from Old Norse útlagi (literally "one put outside the law"). It combines "out" (expelling beyond boundaries) and "law" (legal authority). Historically, an outlaw was stripped of legal protection, making them vulnerable to persecution. Over time, the term evolved to denote criminals evading justice, reflecting societal views on justice and exclusion.
The sheriff pursued the outlaw through the desert.
In medieval times, an outlaw could be killed without consequence.
The government outlawed the use of certain pesticides.
Robin Hood is often portrayed as a heroic outlaw.
The new policy effectively outlaws smoking in public parks.