Definition

Noun: 1. Something that is tempting but prohibited or dangerous: This term originates from the biblical story of the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden, which God forbade Adam and Eve to eat. In modern usage, it refers to any object, activity, or pleasure that is alluring precisely because it is forbidden, unattainable, or considered morally or socially wrong. 2. An illicit or taboo pleasure: Often used to describe temptations involving sexuality, substance use, or other activities that are socially or personally restricted.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Underage drinking often seems like forbidden fruit to some teenagers.
  • For him, the thrill of gambling was the ultimate forbidden fruit.
  • The classic novel treats the protagonist's illicit love affair as a kind of forbidden fruit.

Advanced Usage

• Conceptual Use: The term is frequently used metaphorically to discuss psychology, morality, and desire, emphasizing the increased attraction that comes from prohibition.
  • In marketing, creating an aura of exclusivity can make a product seem like forbidden fruit.
• Cultural Reference: Directly alludes to the biblical narrative in Genesis, serving as a cornerstone concept in Western discussions of temptation, sin, and free will.

Variants and Related Words

• Forbidden (adj): Not allowed; banned.
  • Entry was forbidden.
• Taboo (n/adj): A social or religious custom prohibiting or restricting a particular practice or association with a particular person, place, or thing.
  • The subject was considered a taboo.

Synonyms

• Illicit pleasure
• Taboo desire
• Temptation
• Prohibited delight

Idioms and Related Phrases

• The forbidden fruit is the sweetest: This proverb encapsulates the core idea that things which are banned or unattainable often seem the most desirable.
  • He knew he shouldn't see her, but the forbidden fruit is the sweetest.

Noun

1. originally an apple from the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden; it is now used to refer to anything that is tempting but dangerous (as sexuality)