Meaning & Definition of word "Stifling"
to
Stifling
/ˈstaɪflɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. To restrain or suppress an action or feeling.
- Example: He tried to stifle his laughter during the serious meeting.
- 2. To suffocate or prevent from breathing.
- Example: The smoke from the fire began to stifle the occupants of the building.
adjective:
- 1. Making one feel constrained or oppressed; suffocating.
- Example: The stifling heat in the room made it hard to concentrate.
- 2. Restricting or suppressing a feeling or action.
- Example: Her stifling sense of responsibility prevented her from enjoying the moment.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'stiflan' meaning to suffocate or choke.
Common Phrases and Expressions
stifling heat:
excessive heat that makes it difficult to breathe or concentrate.
stifling competition:
competition that is intense to the point of overwhelming.
Related Words
suffocating:
causing a lack of air or breathing space.
oppressive:
unjustly inflicting hardship and constraint.
constricting:
making something narrower or tighter.
Slang Meanings of stifling
Meaning: Very hot or uncomfortable.
Example Sentence: Man, this party is so stifling, I can't handle it!
Meaning: Something that feels limiting or suppressive.
Example Sentence: That meeting was totally stifling, we need some fresh ideas!