Strangle: meaning, definitions and examples

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strangle

[ˈstræŋ.ɡəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

crime

To strangle means to kill someone by squeezing their throat tightly so that they cannot breathe.

Synonyms

choke, garrote, suffocate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
strangle	Refers to causing someone to die due to sustained pressure on the neck, cutting off the airway. It can also mean constriction, whether literal or metaphorical. Historical records indicate the victim was strangled with a rope The strict policies are strangling the creativity of employees
choke	Can be used when someone has something blocking their throat or when they are being strangled. Also often used figuratively for anxiety or failing under pressure. He started to choke on a piece of food She felt like she was going to choke during her presentation
suffocate	Means to die or cause someone to die from lack of air. Often used to describe situations with limited airflow and can extend to emotional or situational pressures. She suffocated under the collapsed building He felt suffocated by his overprotective parents
garrote	Usually refers to a method of execution or assassination involving a wire or cord to strangle someone. Has a harsh, criminal connotation. The spy was garroted by an enemy agent

Examples of usage

The murderer strangled his victim with a rope.
She was found dead, strangled in her own home.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

emotion

To strangle also means to suppress or restrict something, such as a feeling or freedom.

Synonyms

constrain, stifle, suppress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
strangle	Used typically in violent or extreme situations where someone is being choked or forcibly stopped from breathing. It can also be metaphorically used to describe something being harshly stopped or hindered. He tried to strangle him in a fit of rage. The government policies have strangled the growth of small businesses.
suppress	Used in situations where there is an action to forcefully put an end to something, often used in contexts like emotions, actions, or even information. It often has a negative connotation. The dictator suppressed any form of dissent. He tried to suppress his anger during the argument.
stifle	Used when referring to suppressing or suffocating something, often relating to emotions, creativity, or expression. It suggests a feeling of being smothered or held back. The oppressive atmosphere in the office stifled his creativity. She had to stifle a laugh during the serious meeting.
constrain	Used to describe situations where limitations or restrictions are placed, whether physical, emotional, or metaphorical. It is often used in a more formal or objective context. The budget constraints limited their ability to undertake new projects. She felt constrained by the traditional gender roles.

Examples of usage

Her fear was so strong that it seemed to strangle her.
The strict rules seemed to strangle their creativity.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'stringere', meaning 'to bind tight'.
The word has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, showing how language evolves over time.

Psychology

The act of strangling can symbolize control or power, often seen in abusive relationships.
In literature, themes of strangling can represent emotional suffocation, highlighting relationships that feel overwhelming.

Pop Culture

Strangling is often depicted in movies and TV shows as a dramatic method of conflict, raising intense emotions in the audience.
Many horror films utilize the act to create suspense and fear, essentially making it a popular trope in the genre.

History

In ancient Rome, strangulation was sometimes used as a method of execution, reflecting societal attitudes towards punishment.
Various cultures have historically viewed strangling as a sign of rage or desperation, often linked to violent acts.

Science

Strangulation can lead to a lack of oxygen in the brain, which can result in loss of consciousness or death within minutes.
The physiological effects of strangulation are studied in forensic science to understand crime and violence better.

Translations

Translations of the word "strangle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estrangular

🇮🇳 गला घोंटना

🇩🇪 erwürgen

🇮🇩 mencekik

🇺🇦 душити

🇵🇱 udusić

🇯🇵 絞める (しめる)

🇫🇷 étrangler

🇪🇸 estrangular

🇹🇷 boğmak

🇰🇷 목 졸라 죽이다

🇸🇦 خنق

🇨🇿 uškrtit

🇸🇰 uškrtiť

🇨🇳 勒死 (lè sǐ)

🇸🇮 zadušiti

🇮🇸 kyrkja

🇰🇿 буындырып өлтіру

🇬🇪 მოკვლა

🇦🇿 boğmaq

🇲🇽 estrangular

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,970, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21973 deferment
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