Langimage
English

embargo

|em/bar/go|

B2

🇺🇸

/ɪmˈbɑrɡoʊ/

🇬🇧

/ɪmˈbɑːɡəʊ/

trade restriction

Etymology
Etymology Information

'embargo' originates from Spanish, specifically the word 'embargar,' where 'em-' meant 'in' and 'bargar' meant 'to bar or block.'

Historical Evolution

'embargar' transformed into the English word 'embargo' during the 16th century, maintaining its meaning related to trade restrictions.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bar or block,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an official ban on trade.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an official ban on trade or other commercial activity with a particular country.

The government imposed an embargo on all imports from the country.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to impose an official ban on trade or other commercial activity with a particular country.

The country decided to embargo all oil exports.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45