Smothering

/ˈsmʌðərɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to suffocate or prevent the breathing of someone or something.

The pillow was smothering him, and he struggled to breathe.

to suppress or extinguish (a feeling, idea, etc.).

She felt as if her dreams were being smothered by the constant pressure to conform.

to envelop completely; to cover thickly.

The flames were smothering the firewood, making it difficult for the fire to breathe.

adjective

characterized by excessive devotion or attachment; overwhelming.

His smothering affection made it hard for her to pursue her own interests.

Middle English smotheren, from Old English smotherian, from 'smother', to suffocate.

smothering love

Excessive affection that can be overwhelming.

smother someone's enthusiasm

To dampen or suppress someone's excitement.

smother

To suffocate or stifle.

overbearing

Domineering or overly controlling.

To be overly affectionate or attentive.

He's smothering her with gifts and attention.

To overwhelm someone excessively.

The way she's smothering him with texts is ridiculous.