Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

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Definition stifle in British English

stifle verb

verb
/ˈstaɪf(ə)l/
1

to stop someone from breathing

Synonyms and related words
suffer hurt ache
1.1

to find it difficult to breathe

Synonyms and related words
breathe blow sigh
2

to stop something from developing normally

Example

Businesses are being stifled by a lot of new laws.

Example

an attempt to stifle innovation/debate/democracy

Synonyms and related words
interfere with inhibit disrupt
3

to stop yourself from doing something that shows how you feel

Example

She had to stifle a smile when they appeared.

Example

He stifled the urge to scream.

Synonyms and related words
manage suppress deal with
Definition stifle in British English