Meaning & Definition of word "Choke"

Choke

/tʃoʊk/

1. A condition in which air passages are obstructed, causing difficulty in breathing.
- Example: The child experienced a choke and had to be given first aid.

1. To obstruct the air passage of someone, causing difficulty in breathing.
- Example: He started to choke on a piece of food during dinner.
2. To prevent something from continuing or progressing.
- Example: The thick smoke can choke the fire's oxygen supply.
3. To fail to perform effectively in a critical situation.
- Example: She choked under pressure during the final minutes of the game.
4. To restrain or limit the flow of a substance.
- Example: The pipes were choked with debris, causing the water to back up.

●Middle English 'choken,' of uncertain origin, possibly akin to Old English 'cēocian' which means 'to gag'.

choke up:

To become emotional and unable to speak.

choke on it:

To experience difficulty in dealing with something.

to choke back:

To suppress an emotion or a reaction.

suffocation:

The state of being unable to breathe, which can be a result of choking.

gag:

To make an involuntary sound or motion caused by an obstruction in the throat.

asphyxiation:

The condition of being deprived of oxygen, often resulting from choking.

Meaning: To fail at a crucial moment.

● Example Sentence: He really choked in the championship game.

Meaning: To be overwhelmed or unable to handle pressure.

● Example Sentence: When she got on stage, she choked and forgot her lines.