English · Word Candidate

boycott

/ˈbɔɪkɒt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: boycotts · boycotting · boycotted

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To abstain, either as an individual or a group, from using, buying, or dealing with someone or some organization as an expression of protest.

Verb

Examples

There is probably not a citizen in the United States who wears a hat that has not heard of John Stetson, and does not know that the Stetson hat is one of if not the best made. For some cause the Knights [of Labor] have boycotted the Stetson hats, and have notified all dealers that if they sell them

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The act of boycotting.

Noun

Examples

[W]hat has been the actual effects of the [UFW grape] boycott? As far as one can judge, it has cut down on the grape sales in a few big city outlets. But going into its second year, the boycott is losing steam. The middle class doesn't care.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “boycott” mean?

To abstain, either as an individual or a group, from using, buying, or dealing with someone or some organization as an expression of protest.

Is “boycott” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.

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