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Definition of suffocating

suffocating

/ˈsʌf.əˌkeɪ.tɪŋ/
suf · fo · cat · ing
Adverb:suffocatingly
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suffocating Lexical Profile

suffocating Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Causing or having the sensation of difficulty in breathing, especially due to extreme heat, humidity, or lack of fresh air.

Example

"The hikers sought shade in the canyon to escape the suffocating afternoon heat."

2

Excessively restrictive, controlling, or overwhelming in a way that prevents personal freedom, development, or expression.

Example

"She left her hometown to escape the suffocating expectations of her overprotective family."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for suffocating
Antonyms
View all antonyms for suffocating

• Nearby Words

sufficiently
suffix
suffocate
suffocating
suffocatingly
suffocation
suffrage

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb suffocate, which comes from Latin suffocatus, the past participle of suffocare ('to choke' or 'to stifle'), formed from sub- ('under' or 'up from below') and fauces ('throat' or 'gullet').

Cite this Entry

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