purdah

American  

[pur-duh] / ˈpɜr də /

Or purda,

noun

1. the seclusion of women from the sight of men or strangers, practiced by some Muslims and Hindus.

2. a screen, curtain, or veil used for this purpose.

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purdah British  

/ ˈpɜːdə /

noun

1. the custom in some Muslim and Hindu communities of keeping women in seclusion, with clothing that conceals them completely when they go out

2. a screen in a Hindu house used to keep the women out of view

3. a veil worn by Hindu women of high caste

4. informal hiding or isolation

   the Treasury is currently locked in pre-budget purdah

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Etymology

Origin of purdah

1790–1800; < Hindi, Urdu pardah curtain < Persian

Example Sentences

Abida had a fierce, independent streak even as a child and rebelled against her grandmother when she forced her into purdah at the age of 13.

From BBC

"My intention would not be to stay right up until polling day because purdah will kick in and there will be other stages as well," he said.

From BBC

It is startling to think that it is only eight months since Alonso was in purdah under Lampard and Chelsea was running the risk of missing out on qualifying for the Champions League.

From New York Times

“What is the concept of purdah?” he said, using a term that refers to the practice of seclusion, veiling or concealing dress for women in some South Asian communities.

From New York Times

During purdah the government is required to limit announcements that might influence the outcome of an election.

From BBC