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

Researchers also found that compounds found in bamboo can inhibit the formation of furan and reduce the production of acrylamide.

From Science Daily • Jan. 16, 2026

"Depending on the amplitude and frequency of the vibration, we can either excite or inhibit neurons in the spinal cord," he said.

From Science Daily • Jan. 8, 2026

Fetal hormones, taking chromosomal cues, inhibit Miillerian structures, promote Wolffian ducts.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides

Vocabulary lists containing inhibit

Advanced English Words

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30 GRE Words Beginning with "I"

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 3

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