stifle
[verb]
Synonyms:
- suppress, check, hush, repress, restrain, silence, smother, stop
- suffocate, asphyxiate, choke, smother, strangle

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

sti‧fle /ˈstaɪfəl/ verb
[Date: 1300-1400; Origin: Probably from Old French estouffer 'to stifle']

1. [transitive] to stop something from happening or developing Antonym : encourage:
rules and regulations that stifle innovation
How can this party stifle debate on such a crucial issue?

2. [transitive] to stop a feeling from being expressed:
He stifled an urge to hit her.
stifle a yawn/smile/grin etc
I tried to stifle my laughter.

3. [intransitive, transitive usually passive] if you are stifled by something, it stops you breathing comfortably ⇒ suffocate:
He was almost stifled by the fumes.

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲