stifle
1 Americanverb (used with object)
verb (used without object)
-
to suffer from difficulty in breathing, as in a close atmosphere.
-
to become stifled or suffocated.
noun
verb
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(tr) to smother or suppress
stifle a cough
-
to feel or cause to feel discomfort and difficulty in breathing
-
to prevent or be prevented from breathing so as to cause death
-
(tr) to crush or stamp out
noun
Other Word Forms
- stifler noun
Etymology
Origin of stifle1
First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English from Old Norse stīfla “to stop up, dam,” akin to stīfr “stiff”
Origin of stifle2
1275–1325; Middle English < ?
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The United States has opposed what Vice President JD Vance called "excessive regulation", warning it could stifle innovation in the key sector.
From Barron's
Supporters of the development say it generates jobs and tax revenue, while conservationists fear the developments may stifle the very spectacle hundreds of thousands of tourists visit to see each year.
I understood his concern and tried unsuccessfully to stifle a chuckle.
From Salon
Business and technology groups have opposed the bill, arguing that the new regulations and the right to sue would stifle investment in AI-powered learning tools.
From Los Angeles Times
Many legal and media experts have said a stricter application of the rule would be hard to enforce and could stifle free speech.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
