Suppress

/səˈprɛs/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To put an end to the activity of a person or group.
The government decided to suppress the protests to maintain order.
To prevent the development, action, or expression of something.
He tried to suppress his anger during the meeting.
To restrain or inhibit (a feeling, thought, or impulse).
She couldn't suppress her excitement when she heard the news.
To forcibly put an end to; to subdue.
The army was sent in to suppress the rebellion.
In psychology, to consciously inhibit an impulse or memory.
He was able to suppress the traumatic memories from his childhood.

Etymology

Late Latin suppressus, past participle of suprimere 'to press down, hold down'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

suppress the truth
To hide or conceal the truth from others.
suppress a laugh
To hold back laughter.
suppress emotions
To control or restrain one's feelings.

Related Words

repress
To restrain or prevent from being expressed or acted upon.
subdue
To bring under control, especially by force.
quash
To reject or void, especially by legal means.

Slang Meanings

To shut someone down.
He really suppressed her wild ideas at the meeting.
To keep it on the low.
They’re suppressing the whole situation until it blows over.