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Definition of stifling

stifling

/ˈstaɪ.flɪŋ/
sti · fling
Adverb:stiflingly
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stifling Lexical Profile

stifling Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Making it difficult to breathe, especially because of intense heat, humidity, or a lack of fresh air.

Example

"We stepped out of the air-conditioned train into the stifling afternoon heat."

2

Preventing or constraining freedom, personal expression, or natural development.

Example

"The artist left the academy because she found its rigid rules and traditions stifling."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for stifling

• Nearby Words

stiffness
stifle
stifler
stifling
stiflingly
stigma
stigmata

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'stifle', which entered Middle English in the 14th century, likely blending Old French 'estouffer' (to choke or smother) with Old Norse 'stifla' (to dam up or block).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stifling. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stifling
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