Meaning & Definition of Stifling in English

1. Forceful prevention

• Putting down by power or authority

• "The suppression of heresy"

• "The quelling of the rebellion"

• "The stifling of all dissent"

1. Characterized by oppressive heat and humidity

• "The summer was sultry and oppressive"

• "The stifling atmosphere"

• "The sulfurous atmosphere preceding a thunderstorm"