Suffocated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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suffocated
[ˈsʌfəˌkeɪtɪd ]
Definition
past tense
Suffocated refers to the act of preventing someone from breathing by blocking airflow. This can happen physically, such as through smothering, or metaphorically, such as in situations causing emotional or mental oppression.
Synonyms
asphyxiated, choked, smothered, stifled, strangled.
Examples of usage
- She felt suffocated by the cramped space in the elevator.
- The smoke from the fire suffocated the trapped animals.
- He suffocated under the pressure of expectations.
- The heavy blanket suffocated the cat.
- In the heat of the moment, he felt suffocated by his emotions.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling suffocated can also refer to emotional distress, where a person feels trapped or overwhelmed by situations.
- People might express feeling suffocated in relationships if they perceive a lack of space or freedom.
Health
- Suffocation can occur in emergencies, such as choking on food, and is a leading cause of accidental death, particularly in children.
- Sleep apnea is a medical condition where individuals may feel as if they are suffocating during sleep due to breathing interruptions.
Literature
- The concept of suffocation is often used metaphorically in literature to express emotional confinement or repression.
- In many dystopian novels, characters experience a sense of suffocation under oppressive regimes, depicting loss of freedom.
Pop Culture
- Movies and songs often use suffocation as a dramatic plot device to symbolize struggle or conflict.
- The term is sometimes used in horror films to heighten tension, showcasing characters in dire situations.
Origin of 'suffocated'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'suffocare', which means 'to choke or smother'.
- In early English, 'suffocate' was used in both a literal sense (to die from lack of air) and a figurative sense (to suppress feelings or ideas).
The word 'suffocate' originates from the Latin word 'suffocare', which means 'to choke' or 'to stifle'. The prefix 'sub-' means 'under', and 'focare' comes from 'focus', meaning 'to kindle'. This etymology reflects the idea of being smothered or submerged in something that prevents normal breathing. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, initially in a literal sense, describing the physical act of choking, but over time, it has evolved to encompass metaphorical usages as well. The transition from a physical connotation to abstract meanings related to emotional or psychological constraint showcases the flexibility and richness of the English language.