Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for stifle. Search instead for stiebe.
Definitions

stifle

[stahy-fuhl] / ˈstaɪ fəl /
VERB
prevent, restrain
Synonyms
STRONGEST
curb muzzle repress silence smother squelch strangle suffocate suppress
STRONG
asphyxiate burke check choke constipate cork extinguish gag hush kill muffle spike squash stagnate stop stultify torpedo trammel
WEAK
black out bring to screeching halt choke back clam up clamp down cover up crack down dry up hold it down hush up put the lid on shut up sit on
Antonyms
STRONGEST
allow encourage free let go loose release
STRONG
aid assist bear begin create help start
WEAK
persuade

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.

But critics say that these rules stifle freedom of expression and civil activism.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

They could also stifle key parts of the U.S. economy such as housing that are already struggling under the weight of high borrowing costs.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 21, 2026

Many legal and media experts have said a stricter application of the rule would be hard to enforce and could stifle free speech.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

Many countries are planning similar moves, despite a warning from US Vice President JD Vance last year against "excessive regulation" that could stifle innovation.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

This brought a laugh even from Kat and Rio, which they had to stifle when Charlotte looked up and glared at them.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.