n.
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, partly from bannen & partly from Old French ban, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German bannan to command
Date: 14th century
1 : the summoning in feudal times of the king's vassals for military service
2 : ANATHEMA , EXCOMMUNICATION
3 : MALEDICTION , CURSE
4 : legal or formal prohibition <a ban on beef exports>
5 : censure or condemnation especially through social pressure