to stifle
Third Person
stifles
Present Participle
stifling
Past Tense
stifled
Past Participle
stifled
1
to die or struggle for breath due to a lack of oxygen
- The closed room made him feel like he would stifle without fresh air.
- In the smoky environment, it was easy to stifle and struggle to breathe.
- The intense heat in the attic caused them to stifle and gasp for air.
- The pet owner made sure not to leave the cat in a confined space, fearing it might stifle.
- She stifled during the fire evacuation.
Synonyms:
2
to suppress, restrain, or hinder the growth, development, or intensity of something
transitive
- The strict rules and regulations served to stifle creativity and innovation within the organization.
- A lack of resources can stifle the growth of a small business, limiting its potential for expansion.
- Excessive criticism from peers can stifle a person's confidence and willingness to express their opinions.
- Overregulation in certain industries may stifle competition and impede the development of new technologies.
- The lack of support and encouragement from family can stifle a person's aspirations and ambitions.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
3
to hold back or prevent oneself from expressing a reaction or acting on a feeling or emotion
transitive
- She stifled her laughter during the serious meeting.
- He tried to stifle his anger, but it was obvious he was upset.
- He stifled the urge to yell and kept calm in the tense situation.
- He stifled the desire to argue, knowing it would only make things worse.
- He stifled his frustration, trying to remain patient with the delay.
4
to make someone unable to breathe properly, often by blocking their airway
transitive
- The smoke from the fire stifled them, making it hard to breathe.
- The thick fumes stifled her, and she had to step outside for fresh air.
- The plastic bag accidentally stifled the kitten, but it was removed in time.
- The tight collar stifled him, making it uncomfortable to move.
Synonyms: