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ostracize

OS-truh-syze /ˈɒstrəsaɪz/

verbC1GRESAT

formalneutral

To exclude (someone) from a society or group.

Implies a deliberate and often public act of exclusion, making someone an outcast. It can be a formal banishment or an informal social shunning.

The story behind the word. The origin of 'ostracize' is one of the most fascinating in the English language, taking us back to ancient Athens. Citizens would vote to banish individuals deemed dangerous to the state by writing their names on pieces of pottery called 'ostraka' (from 'ostrakon,' meaning 'potsherd' or 'shell'). If enough votes were cast, the person was 'ostracized' – exiled for ten years. The word thus literally means 'to banish by potsherds,' and today it refers to any form of social exclusion.

Word relationships

shun: To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone; often less formal than 'ostracize'.
banish: To send someone away from a place as an official punishment; more about physical removal.
exclude: A more general term for keeping someone out; 'ostracize' implies a more active and deliberate social rejection.

welcome: To greet someone warmly and accept them.
include: To make someone a part of a group.

Commonly confused with

ignore: 'Ignore' is simply not paying attention; 'ostracize' is a deliberate act of social exclusion, often with intent to punish or isolate.

Word family

ostracism (noun): The act of ostracizing; exclusion from a society or group.

Collocations

socially ostracize
ostracize from a group
fear being ostracized
deliberately ostracize

Example sentences

"After he betrayed their trust, his former friends decided to ostracize him from their social circle." Describing social punishment.
"In ancient Athens, citizens could vote to ostracize individuals deemed a threat to the state, banishing them for ten years." In historical context.
"The new employee felt ostracized by her colleagues who had worked together for many years." Discussing group dynamics.

Memory hook

Imagine an 'ostrich' sticking its head in the sand, trying to hide or exclude itself from the group. Ostrich hides

When not to use

Do not use 'ostracize' for a simple disagreement or a temporary falling out among friends. It implies a more severe and sustained act of social rejection.

Fun facts

The ancient Athenian practice of ostracism was intended to prevent tyranny and political instability, allowing the public to remove powerful figures without resorting to violence.
Sometimes, two names were found on the same potsherd, suggesting that some citizens might have been illiterate and had others write names for them.