The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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smother

verb

/ˈsmʌð ər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of smother

To completely cover or suffocate someone or something, often with a soft material or by applying pressure.
"The chef decided to smother the pancakes in warm maple syrup."

Detailed meaning of smother

It implies the suppression or elimination of a person's or object's ability to breathe or function properly. This action can be carried out with the intention of causing harm, such as smothering a fire by depriving it of oxygen, or it can describe an act of care, like a mother smothering her child with love and affection. Metaphorically, smothering can refer to overwhelming or stifling someone with attention, affection, or excessive control, which can have a negative impact on their freedom or individuality. Overall, smothering involves the act of covering, suppressing, or overwhelming someone or something to the point of hindering their well-being, functionality, or autonomy.

Example sentences containing smother

1. We should not smother the fire too soon.
2. Please, don't smother your feelings, share them with me.
3. Try to smother the flames with a blanket.
4. It's crucial not to smother the steak with too much sauce.
5. As a parent, you need to guide your children, not smother them.
6. When the fear threatens to smother me, I focus on my breath.

History and etymology of smother

The verb 'smother' has its etymological roots in Middle English, where it was originally spelled as 'smortheren.' This Middle English term was influenced by the Old English word 'smorian,' which meant to suffocate or choke. Both 'smortheren' and 'smorian' were linked to the Proto-Germanic word 'smurwjan,' which conveyed the idea of stifling or smothering. The concept behind 'smother' involves the act of completely covering or suffocating someone or something, often with a soft material or by applying pressure. This word's historical connection to the notion of suffocation and stifling remains evident in its modern usage, where it describes the action of enveloping or suppressing something to the point of making it unable to breathe or function properly.

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Further usage examples of smother

1. If you smother the soil with mulch, it will help retain moisture.
2. She tends to smother her fries with ketchup.
3. Don't smother the bread in butter; we're trying to eat healthily.
4. I decided to smother my worries and enjoy the day.
5. To keep it moist, you can smother the turkey with a wine-soaked cloth.
6. Smother your sorrows in the sweetness of this chocolate cake.
7. Try not to smother the pan with too much oil.
8. We must smother our doubts and push forward.
9. They planned to smother the fire before it spread any further.
10. Smother the pie with a generous amount of whipped cream.
11. Don't smother the plants by watering them too much.
12. She wanted to smother her grief with a good book.
13. He had to smother his irritation and stay professional.
14. Smother your fears and embrace the opportunity with open arms.