Meaning & Definition of word "Suppress"

Suppress

/səˈprɛs/

verb:

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

Meaning: To shut someone down.

Example Sentence: He really suppressed her wild ideas at the meeting.

Meaning: To keep it on the low.

Example Sentence: They’re suppressing the whole situation until it blows over.