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Definition of suffocation

suffocation

/ˌsʌf.əˈkeɪ.ʃən/
suf · fo · ca · tion
Adverb:suffocatingly
•
Plural:suffocations
•
Adjective:suffocative
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suffocation Lexical Profile

suffocation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or process of dying or being severely harmed due to a lack of air or inability to breathe.

Example

"Proper ventilation in the mine shaft is essential to prevent the risk of suffocation."

2

An oppressive feeling of being trapped, stifled, or unable to express oneself freely.

Example

"He left his hometown to escape the emotional suffocation of its rigid social expectations."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for suffocation

• Nearby Words

suffocate
suffocating
suffocatingly
suffocation
suffrage
suffragette
suffragism

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Latin 'suffocatio', from the verb 'suffocare' meaning 'to choke or stifle', formed from 'sub-' (up from under) and 'fauces' (throat or narrow passage).

Cite this Entry

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