Stifled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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stifled
[หstaษชfษld ]
Definitions
emotional expression
To stifle means to prevent something from happening or being expressed. It can refer to suppressing feelings, actions, or sounds, often leading to feelings of constriction or suffocation.
Synonyms
muffle, restrain, squelch, suppress.
Examples of usage
- She stifled a laugh during the serious meeting.
- He stifled his anger and remained calm.
- The oppressive heat stifled their enthusiasm for the outdoor event.
physical action
To stifle can also mean to smother or choke, especially in a physical context. It emphasizes the idea of restricting airflow or causing an inability to breathe.
Synonyms
choke, smother, strangle, suffocate.
Examples of usage
- The thick smoke stifled her ability to breathe.
- He stifled the flames with a wet cloth.
- The blanket stifled the small campfire.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'stifled'
The word 'stifle' originates from the Middle English term 'stiflen', which means to suffocate or choke. It is derived from the Old French 'estouffer', meaning to suffocate, smother, or stifle, which in turn comes from the Latin 'stupare' meaning to dull or confuse. Over time, the meaning of 'stifle' has evolved beyond its original physical connotation to include emotional and metaphorical uses, emphasizing not just the act of physical suppression but also the hindrance of expression or thought. This evolution showcases the rich interplay between language and culture, where terms can adapt to encapsulate broader human experiences.