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stifle

verb

/ˈstʌɪfl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of stifle

To suppress or smother something, such as an emotion, an idea, or a movement.
"She tried to stifle her laughter during the serious meeting."

Detailed meaning of stifle

It can also refer to the physical act of suffocating or choking someone or something. The term is often used to describe the suppression of free speech or the suppression of creativity and innovation. For example, a government that stifles the freedom of the press or the freedom of speech is said to be stifling the ability of its citizens to express themselves. In a personal context, stifling feelings or emotions can lead to negative effects on mental health. It can also refer to actions that prevent something from developing or growing, for example, stifle competition in a market. In general, stifle implies an action or attitude that hinders or prevents something from happening or being expressed.

Example sentences containing stifle

1. She had to stifle her laughter during the serious meeting.
2. Don't stifle creativity; let ideas flow freely.
3. The oppressive regime tried to stifle dissent.
4. Stress can stifle your ability to think clearly.
5. He couldn't stifle his curiosity any longer.
6. It's important not to stifle a child's independence.

History and etymology of stifle

The verb 'stifle' has its etymological origins in the Old English word 'stifelian,' which meant 'to choke' or 'to suffocate.' This Old English term shares roots with the Old Norse word 'stifla,' which also conveyed the idea of stifling or suffocating. The core meaning of 'stifle' involves the act of suppressing or smothering something, be it an emotion, an idea, or a movement. The word implies a constriction or restraint that hinders the natural expression or development of the subject in question. The etymology of 'stifle' underscores its historical connection to the concept of suffocation and constraint, making it a fitting term to describe the inhibition or suppression of various aspects of human experience and expression.

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Further usage examples of stifle

1. Fear can stifle personal growth and development.
2. They attempted to stifle the protest, but it grew stronger.
3. She struggled to stifle her anger in the argument.
4. The heavy workload can stifle productivity.
5. He didn't want to stifle her dreams with criticism.
6. The outdated policies can stifle innovation.
7. Social norms often stifle individuality.
8. The lack of resources can stifle progress.
9. It's essential not to stifle open and honest communication.
10. The humidity can stifle your comfort in summer.
11. Anxiety can stifle one's ability to take risks.
12. They sought to stifle competition in the market.
13. The room's stuffiness seemed to stifle creativity.
14. It's critical to avoid actions that stifle others' potential.
15. The hot and humid weather made it difficult to stifle her yawns.
16. The new regulations could stifle innovation in the tech industry.
17. He had to stifle his anger when his coworker took credit for his work.
18. The thick smoke from the fire made it hard to breathe and stifle.
19. She tried to stifle her tears when she heard the bad news.
20. The government's censorship laws could stifle freedom of speech.
21. The tight collar of his shirt felt like it would stifle him.
22. She didn't want to stifle her son's creativity, so she encouraged him to pursue his interests.
23. The company's strict policies could stifle employee morale.
24. The blanket was so heavy that it seemed to stifle her.
25. His fear of failure was beginning to stifle his ambition.