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Definition of throttle

throttle

/ˈθrɑːt.əl/
throt · tle

Plural:throttles
•
Past Simple:throttled
•
Past Participle:throttled
•
Present Participle:throttling
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throttle Lexical Profile

throttle Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A mechanism that controls the flow of fluid, especially fuel or air, into an engine to regulate its speed and power output.

Example

"The pilot pushed the throttle forward to increase engine power for takeoff."


2

The lever, pedal, or handle used by an operator to control the throttle mechanism.

Example

"He kept his foot firmly on the throttle as the car raced down the straightaway."


3

The throat, windpipe, or trachea, particularly of a person or animal.

Example

"The wolf gripped its prey tightly by the throttle."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To intentionally limit, suppress, or constrain the flow of something (such as internet bandwidth, progress, or speech).

Example

"The telecommunications company was fined for secretly throttling the connection speeds of its users."


2

To control, reduce, or regulate the speed of an engine or vehicle by restricting fuel or power.

Example

"You need to throttle back the engine when approaching the dock."


3

To choke or strangle by compressing the throat.

Example

"The hero managed to escape before the villain could throttle him."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for throttle

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'throtlen' (to choke), a frequentative or diminutive verb formed from 'throte' (throat). The mechanical sense arose in the 19th century from the idea of 'choking' the flow of steam or fuel.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Throttle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/throttle
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