Ostracism/ˈɑːstrəsɪzəm/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Using 'ostracism' can convey a strong sense of rejection and hurt feelings. After the argument, she faced complete ostracism from the group. Pro Tip 2/3Group Dynamics 'Ostracism' often implies a collective decision by a social circle to exclude someone. He didn't know why, but the ostracism at work was very clear. Pro Tip 3/3Not Physical Ostracism is emotional or social, not a physical action of moving someone away. Although they sat together, the social ostracism was palpable.