Definition of banish

The word "banish" has a rich etymology. It originated in the 14th century from the Old French word "banier," which means "to command" or "to ban." This, in turn, comes from the Latin "banitare," which is based on the verb "banus," meaning "to command" or "to prohibit." The idea was that a ban or edict would be issued, commanding someone to leave a place or prohibiting them from entering. Over time, the meaning of "banish" expanded to include not just physical removal but also spiritual or emotional separation. For example, one might banish a thought or a memory from their mind. The word has also taken on connotations of civic or social exclusion, as when someone is banished from a community or a profession. Despite its complex origins, "banish" has remained a powerful and versatile word in English.