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.

Some investors may be concerned that government involvement could slow or stifle innovation and development.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

But a shortage of the particular chilli pepper used to create the quintessential Caribbean condiment is threatening to stifle supply, while sending costs for the region's producers soaring.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

But from art to entrepreneurship, he argues, constraints can unleash rather than stifle great work: “In seeking more freedom we frequently hamper our best efforts, because what we really need are helpful boundaries.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

I covered my mouth to stifle a laugh.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss

Vocabulary lists containing stifle

The Diary of Anne Frank

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"The Tell-Tale Heart," Vocabulary from the short story

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List 5

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