banish

word

Definition

To force someone to leave a place, usually as a punishment. It can also mean to completely get rid of something, such as a thought or feeling.

Usage & Nuances

'Banish' is formal and often historical (e.g., 'banish from the kingdom'), but it can be used metaphorically ('banish fear'). Do not confuse with 'ban' (officially forbid). Common collocations: 'banish someone', 'banish doubts', 'banish thoughts'.

Example Sentences

The king banished the traitor from the kingdom.

basic

He tried to banish all negative thoughts.

basic

The teacher banished him from the classroom for talking during the lesson.

basic

No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t banish her homesickness.

natural

Rumors were enough to get someone banished from the village.

natural

She tried yoga to banish her anxiety before exams.

natural