Pronunciation: [ˈɒstɹɐsˌa͡ɪzd] (IPA) 
The word "ostracised" is spelled with an "s" after the "c" because the root word "ostracize" comes from the Greek word "ostrakizein" and is spelled with a "sigma" (ς). In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced ˈɒstrəsaɪzd, with the stress on the second syllable. The verb means to exclude or banish someone from a social group, and is often used in contexts of punishment or social rejection.
Ostracised is a verb that refers to the act of excluding, isolating, or shunning an individual or a group from a particular social or cultural context. It involves the deliberate action of rejecting or alienating someone, often due to a perceived difference, disagreement, or disapproval of their beliefs, actions, or characteristics.
The term originates from the ancient Greek practice of ostracism, in which citizens would vote to banish a person from their community for a period of ten years. In modern times, being ostracised typically involves being marginalized, ignored, or excluded from social interactions, relationships, or opportunities within a specific community or society.
The consequence of ostracism can have significant psychological, emotional, and social impacts on the individual or group being ostracised. Ostracised people often experience feelings of rejection, loneliness, and emotional pain. They may face difficulties in forming relationships or fitting in with their peers, leading to social and emotional distress. Ostracism can also perpetuate inequality and discrimination, as it reinforces societal norms and hinders progress towards inclusivity and acceptance.
It is important to distinguish between ostracism and legitimate forms of social distancing, such as self-isolation during a contagious disease outbreak, as the former is an intentional act of harm while the latter is typically motivated by public health concerns.
The word "ostracised" has its roots in ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "ostrakon" (ὄστρακον), which means "shell" or "potsherd". In ancient Athens, citizens would write the name of a person they wanted to banish or exclude on a broken piece of pottery called an "ostrakon". The practice was known as "ostracism". If an individual received enough votes against them, typically 6,000, they would be exiled from the city for a period of ten years. Hence, over time, "ostracism" and its derivative "ostracised" became terms meaning to exclude or banish someone from a group or society.
