inhibit

[in-hib-it] / ɪnˈhɪb ɪt /

VERB

restrict, prevent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constrain curb discourage forbid hinder impede obstruct outlaw prohibit restrain stymie suppress

STRONG

arrest avert bar bit bridle check cramp enjoin faze frustrate hog-tie interdict repress sandbag stop taboo ward withhold

WEAK

hang up hold back hold down hold in keep in put on brakes

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist encourage facilitate forward free help let go permit promote push release support

WEAK

approve

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They did this both through genetic methods and by developing a drug designed to inhibit the enzyme.

From Science Daily • Feb. 6, 2026

Most NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, inhibit both, which is why doctors recommend taking them with food rather than on an empty stomach.

From Science Daily • Jan. 20, 2026

"By developing candidate drugs that safely and specifically inhibit nuclear signaling through the retinoic acid pathway, we are paving the way for a novel therapeutic approach to cancer," said Kang.

From Science Daily • Jan. 16, 2026

Their approach aimed to detect both common and extremely low-level compounds that could inhibit α-glucosidase, while also reducing solvent use and speeding up analysis.

From Science Daily • Jan. 11, 2026

Their role was to act as agents provocateurs, and they would attempt to push us around, take our food, and inhibit any political discussions we tried to have.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Vocabulary lists containing inhibit

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30 GRE Words Beginning with "I"

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 3

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