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

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strangle

verb

/ˈstræŋ gəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of strangle

To intentionally or unintentionally causing someone's death or prevent them from breathing by applying pressure or constriction around their throat or neck.
"The vines grew so thick they seemed to strangle the tree."

Detailed meaning of strangle

It involves using physical force to block the flow of air or blood, resulting in the person being unable to breathe properly. Strangling can be done with the hands, a rope, or any other object that can exert pressure on the neck area. It is a violent and dangerous act, often associated with intent to harm or kill. The act of strangling can cause severe injury or lead to fatal consequences due to the obstruction of the airway or blood supply to the brain. In a figurative sense, "strangle" can also be used to describe the suppression or suffocation of something's growth, progress, or freedom, such as stifling creativity or restricting opportunities.

Example sentences containing strangle

1. He attempted to strangle his victim with a scarf.
2. The tight collar felt like it was strangling me.
3. She struggled to break free as he tried to strangle her.
4. He was convicted of attempting to strangle his ex-partner.
5. The constricting feeling around his neck made him gasp for air.
6. The python coiled around its prey, ready to strangle it.

History and etymology of strangle

The verb 'strangle' has its origins in Middle English, drawing from the Old French word 'estrangler,' which, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin 'strangulare.' The Latin term 'strangulare' meant to choke or throttle, and it was often used to describe the act of intentionally or unintentionally causing someone's death by applying pressure or constriction around their throat or neck, thus preventing them from breathing. The etymology of 'strangle' underscores the grim and violent nature of this action, reflecting the historical significance of such acts and their portrayal in various cultures and societies throughout history.

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Further usage examples of strangle

1. The boa constrictor uses its powerful muscles to strangle its prey.
2. She felt her anxiety beginning to strangle her confidence.
3. The oppressive regulations were starting to strangle the small business.
4. The tight grip of fear seemed to strangle his voice.
5. The authoritarian regime tried to strangle dissenting voices in the media.
6. He tried to strangle his opponent during the heated fight.
7. The assassin attempted to silently strangle his target.
8. Fear threatened to strangle her as she gasped for air.
9. The wrestler used an illegal move to strangle his rival.
10. She narrowly escaped an attacker's attempt to strangle her.
11. The boa constrictor can strangle its prey with powerful coils.
12. A sense of despair seemed to strangle his hopes and dreams.
13. He had to fight to escape the grip that threatened to strangle him.
14. The vines seemed to strangle the life out of the old tree.
15. His jealousy threatened to strangle their relationship.
16. The evidence suggested foul play, possibly a strangling.
17. The tension in the room seemed to strangle all conversation.
18. She used a scarf to strangle her creativity temporarily.
19. The detective worked tirelessly to solve the strangling case.
20. Anxiety can feel like it's trying to strangle your peace of mind.
21. A feeling of guilt seemed to strangle his conscience.
22. He managed to strangle his laughter during the serious meeting.
23. The thought of failure can sometimes strangle our motivation.
24. The snake coiled around its prey, ready to strangle.
25. The vines threatened to strangle the beauty of the garden.