forfend

[ fawr-fend ]

verb (used with object)

1. to defend, secure, or protect.
2. to fend off, avert, or prevent.
3. Archaic. forbid.

forfend

/ fɔːˈfɛnd /

verb

1. to protect or secure
2. obsolete.
   to prohibit or prevent

Word History and Origins

Origin of forfend¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, forfend is from the Middle English word forfenden. See for-, fend

Example Sentences

Heaven forfend that the owl should have suffered a fraction of what Abel wished it.

From Literature

Recently relocated to Paris from Los Angeles, Millepied has not — heaven forfend — been idle.

From New York Times

“It isn’t hard to see the Oscars on a track to becoming something like the National Book Awards” — heaven forfend! — “with way more glamorous presenters.”

From New York Times

Otherwise, he has to use — heaven forfend — a metal teapot.

From Los Angeles Times

And heaven forfend that we report deaths occurring more than two days before.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• avert
• avoid
• bar
• block
• counter
• forbid
• forestall
• halt
• hamper
• hinder
• impede
• inhibit
• limit
• preclude
• prohibit
• put an end to
• restrain
• restrict
• rule out
• stop