verb
suffocate
SUF-uh-kayt/ˈsʌfəkeɪt/
To deprive someone of breathable air.
Blocking the lungs' supply of breathable air can suffocate a person.
Etymology
The “up” and “throat” pieces express the original image “narrow up”: constricting the passage for air. That choking image underlies the sense of dying, or causing death, through lack of air.
In context
if a person inhales too much carbon monoxide the blood becomes unable to carry the oxygen this can cause the cells in the vital organs to suffocate and die
More examples
- The trapped miners nearly suffocated before rescuers restored the air supply.
- She feels as if she is suffocating in the stuffy room.
- His constant attention makes her feel suffocated.
Forms
suffocate · suffocates · suffocated · suffocating
suffocation noun — The condition of being deprived of breathable air.
Similar words
- smother
- Often means blocking breathing by covering the nose and mouth.
- choke
- Usually involves a blocked throat rather than unbreathable surroundings.
- asphyxiate
- More technical; emphasizes a dangerous lack of oxygen.