ostracization
OS-truh-sy-ZAY-shun
Definition
The act of excluding someone from a society or group, often by shunning or banishing them as a form of social punishment.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word 'ostrakon,' referring to a potsherd used in ancient Athens for voting to banish citizens. It entered English in the 17th century to describe the practice of excluding individuals from social or political circles.
In the news
In the article, the term describes the severe social exclusion and isolation imposed on elderly men by their community due to baseless witchcraft allegations. It highlights the human rights abuses these individuals suffer when their neighbors collectively refuse to interact with or support them.
Two Imo Elders Ostracized Over Alleged Witchcraft Seek Justice
Read the full article ↗The Guardian Nigeria News