Meaning & Definition of word "Suffocate"

Suffocate

/ˈsʌfəkeɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to die or cause to die from lack of air or inability to breathe.
    • Example: The trapped miners suffocated due to the lack of oxygen.
  • 2. to suppress the expression or activity of; stifle.
    • Example: The oppressive regime sought to suffocate any dissent.
  • 3. to impede or stop the flow of something.
    • Example: The thick fog seemed to suffocate visibility on the roads.

Etymology

From Latin suffocare 'to choke, suffocate', from sub- 'under' + fauces 'throat'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

suffocate with love:

to show overwhelming affection that can be burdensome

suffocate in silence:

to endure pain or distress without expressing it

Related Words

asphyxiate:

to cause to die from lack of oxygen

choke:

to prevent someone from breathing by closing the windpipe

Slang Meanings of suffocate

Meaning: to feel overwhelmed or unable to cope in a situation

Example Sentence: I felt like I was suffocating under all that pressure from work.

Meaning: to restrict someone's freedom or independence

Example Sentence: Her overprotective parents were suffocating her social life.