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

Critics argue it could stifle the investment Australia needs to build more houses and could worsen the plight of renters.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

In a largely symbolic move, the OPEC+ nations announced Sunday that they would raise daily oil output by 188,000 barrels as the conflict continues to stifle global oil supply.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

Giggles bubbled up at the memory, and Emily pressed her fingers to her lips to stifle them.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

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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