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.

The team also identified 11 genes that may have the ability to kill or inhibit bacteria, fungi, and even viruses.

From Science Daily • Feb. 21, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Feb. 6, 2026

"Instead of completely switching off MYC, future drugs could specifically inhibit only its ability to bind RNA. This would potentially leave its growth-promoting function untouched, but lift the tumor's cloak of invisibility," explains Eilers.

From Science Daily • Jan. 24, 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

The outside of the suit was covered with an elaborate exoskeleton, a network of artificial tendons and joints that could both sense and inhibit my movements.

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline

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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