Meaning & Definition of word "Suffocating"
to
Suffocating
/ˈsʌf.ə.keɪ.tɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. Present participle of suffocate.
- Example: The thick smoke was suffocating the trapped occupants of the building.
adjective:
- 1. Causing difficulty in breathing; oppressive.
- Example: The suffocating heat made it impossible to breathe comfortably.
- 2. Restricting or stifling progress or freedom.
- Example: The suffocating regulations were hindering the growth of small businesses.
Etymology
From Middle English suffocaten, from Latin suffocare, from sub- 'under' + fauces 'throat'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
suffocating heat:
Extreme heat that makes it difficult to breathe comfortably.
suffocating pressure:
Intense pressure that feels overwhelming, either physically or emotionally.
Related Words
suffocate:
To prevent from breathing; to choke.
suffocation:
The state of being deprived of air or unable to breathe.
Slang Meanings of suffocating
Meaning: Feeling overwhelmed by stress or obligations.
Example Sentence: I’m feeling suffocating with all these deadlines looming over me.
Meaning: An extreme level of intimacy or clinginess in a relationship.
Example Sentence: Her constant texts felt suffocating, I needed some space.